South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement of a simplified visa process for Nigerian citizens has ignited significant controversy, leading to increasing calls for his resignation.
The new policy, unveiled during the 11th Session of the South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission in Cape Town on December 3, aims to boost economic and tourism activities between the two nations.
The initiative has drawn strong criticism from some South Africans, with many expressing concerns on social media and even publishing an open letter urging the president to reverse the decision.
Opponents argue that the government is focusing too much on foreign relations while ignoring domestic issues.
In response to the backlash, the presidency clarified that the visa reforms are part of a global push to modernize and simplify visa processes.
Ramaphosa explained that eligible Nigerian businesspeople could now be granted a five-year multiple-entry visa without the need for a passport for application.
The timing of the announcement has raised further concerns, as tensions between South Africans and Nigerians have been high, particularly on social media.
Critics fear the policy could aggravate existing social and economic challenges in South Africa.
Despite the growing discontent, the South African government insists that the new visa policy is a key component of its strategy to strengthen bilateral relations and foster economic cooperation with Nigeria.
