Nigeria South Africans Protest Ramaphosa's New Visa Policy for Nigerians

President Cyril Ramaphosa faces backlash as South Africans trend #RamaphosaMustGo over a new five-year visa policy for Nigerians. Critics claim the policy prioritizes foreign relations over local challenges, including unemployment. Ramaphosa defends the move, emphasizing its role in strengthening economic ties and tourism between South Africa and Nigeria.

The hashtag #RamaphosaMustGo has surged on social media as South Africans demand the resignation of President Cyril Ramaphosa following the announcement of a five-year simplified visa policy for Nigerian nationals. This policy, revealed during the South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission, aims to boost tourism and economic cooperation by easing entry for Nigerian businesspeople.

Despite the government’s intentions, the policy has drawn widespread criticism. Detractors accuse the administration of prioritizing foreign relations over domestic challenges, particularly amidst high unemployment and limited public resources.

Critics fear the policy could worsen social tensions between South Africans and Nigerians, given past conflicts. The presidency, however, maintains that the initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen economic ties and modernize visa systems. The public outcry underscores ongoing debates about immigration and economic strategy in South Africa.