Xenophobia: Air Peace CEO Urges Nigerians to Stop Investing in South Africa

Air Peace CEO Air Peace Chairman Allen Onyema has called on Nigerians to halt new investments in South Africa as a response to recurring xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals, including Nigerians.

Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, Onyema said the response should be economic and non-violent, rather than involving protests, retaliation attacks, or destruction of property.

He argued that repeated xenophobic incidents show a failure by South African authorities to adequately protect migrants and foreign business owners during periods of unrest.

“Non-violent economic retaliation”

Onyema said Nigerians should withdraw financial engagement with South Africa as a form of pressure.

“The kind of retaliation I want is for Nigerians to boycott South Africa. Don’t invest in that country. If they want to invest in our country, let them bring their money and invest, and you determine how they take the money back. That is non-violent action,” he said.

His comments come amid renewed anti-immigrant protests in parts of South Africa, where some groups have reportedly demanded that undocumented foreigners leave their communities. The situation has raised concerns across Africa, with some countries, including Nigeria, monitoring developments closely.

Concerns over state response

Onyema criticised what he described as weak enforcement by South African security agencies during xenophobic outbreaks.

He questioned how attackers are often able to operate without immediate intervention from police or military forces, describing the pattern as unacceptable.

He also highlighted the contributions of Nigerian entrepreneurs in South Africa, noting that many have built businesses, created jobs, and supported local economic activity.

Warning against violence or business attacks

While supporting stronger action from Nigeria, Onyema rejected any form of violent retaliation or attacks on South African nationals or businesses operating in Nigeria.

He specifically warned against targeting companies such as MTN, saying they employ Nigerians and have local shareholders.

“I don’t want Nigerians to go to the street and attack any South Africans,” he said.

He also opposed shutting down established South African-owned businesses in Nigeria, stressing that such companies contribute to employment and economic growth.