President Cyril Ramaphosa has faced a significant backlash following his recent remarks regarding his meeting with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In his address, Ramaphosa underscored the importance of enhancing trade relations between South Africa and Nigeria. He expressed optimism about the growing prospects for Nigerian businesses in South Africa, eagerly anticipating Nigerian products on South African store shelves. “We look forward to seeing more Nigerian companies investing in South Africa. In fact, we want to see Nigerian products on the shelves of South African shops,” Ramaphosa stated, signaling a commitment to deepening bilateral economic ties between the two nations.
The South African president also announced plans to make it easier for Nigerian tourists to visit South Africa. As part of his efforts to promote stronger bilateral relations, he proposed the introduction of a simplified five-year multiple-entry visa for Nigerian nationals. This move would eliminate the need for Nigerians to submit their passports for visa applications, an initiative aimed at making South Africa a more accessible destination for Nigerian tourists and business people alike. Ramaphosa emphasized that these efforts were in line with fostering a more attractive business environment for investors, including those from South Africa looking to expand into Nigeria.
However, Ramaphosa’s proposals have been met with widespread criticism from sections of the South African public. Many South Africans expressed frustration with the president’s focus on facilitating easier access for Nigerian nationals while they felt their own concerns were being overlooked. Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), became a hotbed for public dissent. One user voiced their anger by labeling the visa policy as an “act of war” against South African citizens, arguing that offering millions of Nigerians visa-free entry would be detrimental to local interests and security.
Other South Africans have also taken to social media to voice their disillusionment with Ramaphosa’s leadership. A frustrated user wrote, “Cyril Ramaphosa is the biggest disappointment ever. We had so much faith in him, only for him to turn out to be the worst thing to happen to South Africa.” This sentiment is not unique, as many others expressed similar views, accusing the president of disregarding the concerns of South African citizens, particularly with respect to immigration and the economic challenges facing local communities. Some have gone as far as to call for a change in leadership, with one user urging fellow South Africans to “punish the ANC in 2026” for what they perceive as the government’s failure to listen to the voices of its people.
The public outcry reflects deep-seated concerns about the rising tension surrounding immigration, foreign nationals, and economic opportunities. While Ramaphosa’s administration has sought to strengthen South Africa’s relationship with African nations, including Nigeria, many South Africans feel that this focus on external partnerships comes at the expense of addressing pressing domestic issues. The frustration appears to stem from a perception that the government is more interested in international diplomacy than in the welfare of its own citizens, especially given the economic struggles, unemployment, and service delivery challenges faced by many South Africans.
The controversy surrounding Ramaphosa’s remarks has reignited debates about South Africa’s immigration policies and the role of foreign nationals in the local economy. Critics argue that policies perceived to favor foreign nationals, especially those from neighboring African countries, could exacerbate competition for jobs, housing, and public services. These concerns come at a time when South Africa is facing significant social and economic challenges, leading many to question whether the government’s focus on strengthening ties with Nigeria is in alignment with the interests of the South African people.
As the debate continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Ramaphosa will address the growing discontent among South Africans. The response to his policies will likely play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape as the country heads into the 2026 general elections. What is clear, however, is that the president’s recent statements have sparked a heated conversation about national priorities, immigration, and the future direction of South Africa’s international relationships.
