South African President criticised over Nigeria visa deal

South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, is facing criticism over his decision to relax visa rules for Nigerian businessmen and tourists. Some South Africans have accused him of “selling” the country, claiming the new deal allows Nigerians to apply for visas with just a copy of their passport, with the original document submitted later.

These critics have taken to social media, alleging that Nigerians are flooding the country with harmful intentions, and some have even called for a national shutdown in protest.

In response, the National Secretary of the ruling African National Congress (ANC), Fikile Mbalula, defended Ramaphosa, saying the criticism was based on a misunderstanding. He explained that the new policy was aimed at improving trade relations between South Africa and Nigeria, not allowing entry without passports. Mbalula dismissed calls for a shutdown as an attempt to cause chaos and reaffirmed that Ramaphosa would continue to lead as the elected president.

Ramaphosa announced the new policy at the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission in Cape Town. He highlighted that Nigerian business people could now receive a five-year multiple-entry visa to facilitate trade and investment between the two countries.