President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent announcement of a simplified visa process for Nigerian nationals has ignited a wave of backlash across South Africa. The initiative, unveiled during the 11th Session of the South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission in Cape Town on December 3, aims to boost economic ties and tourism between the two nations. However, this move has triggered intense criticism, with many South Africans accusing the president of neglecting domestic priorities in favor of foreign relations.Ramaphosa
Social media platforms have become the battleground for dissent, with the hashtag #RamaphosaMustGo trending as citizens vent their frustrations. Critics argue that the relaxed visa policy will worsen existing social and economic challenges, including unemployment, crime, and strained public services.
One vocal critic, @gento2, lashed out, stating, “The most selfish/greedy person I know, selling the country cheaply to Nigerians for his benefit #RamaphosaMustGo.”
Similarly, @themankhosi claimed, “96% Bantu South Africans LANDLESS in their own country now must compete with Nigerians… There are 250 million Nigerians in Nigeria, 80 million on the way to South Africa.”
Other citizens echoed these sentiments. @Thutz1 urged the president to prioritize local concerns: “Let’s clean our house first… Please understand that you work for us South Africans, not Nigerians.” Another critic, @Miriam730, lamented, “No jobs, crime is rampant, hospitals are full… Democracy is enjoyed by foreigners. Can we see the MOU you signed with Nigeria?”
In response to the uproar, the presidency issued a statement clarifying the policy’s intent. Ramaphosa emphasized that the five-year multiple-entry visa for qualified Nigerian business people is part of a broader effort to modernize visa processes and foster trade relations. He also dismissed claims that the policy allows entry without passports, labeling such assertions as deliberate distortions.
Read also: Court grants Dele Farotimi N50m bail
“We are creating a favorable environment for economic growth and international collaboration,” Ramaphosa explained. “This initiative is targeted at streamlining visa applications globally, not compromising South Africa’s sovereignty.”
Fikile Mbalula, the National Secretary of the ruling African National Congress (ANC), defended the president against what he called “intentional misinterpretation.” Speaking in Johannesburg, Mbalula reiterated that the policy was aimed solely at facilitating trade relations with Nigeria and dismissed calls for a national shutdown as a failed attempt to sow chaos.
“The relaxation of visa requirements does not mean Nigerians can enter without passports. This distortion is unfounded,” Mbalula said. He added, “The ANC remains committed to defending South Africa’s sovereignty, uplifting its people, and ensuring that our country is a home for all who respect its laws.”
Despite the growing criticism, the government is standing firm. Ramaphosa assured South Africans that his administration is focused on balancing international relations with domestic concerns, stressing that the policy is a step toward strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing economic cooperation.
