The Republic of South Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to safe and seamless travel for Nigerian visitors as both countries seek to deepen tourism, trade and cultural relations.
The commitment was made at the South Africa Tourism Connect held on Wednesday at Heritage Place, Ikoyi, Lagos, with key stakeholders from the tourism, aviation and business sectors in attendance.
The event brought together representatives of the South African Tourism Board, Nigeria South Africa Chamber of Commerce, South African Airways (SAA), National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) and National Association of Nigeria Tour Operators (NATOP).
Speaking at the event, the Acting High Commissioner and Consul General of South Africa, Prof. Bobby J. Moroe, addressed concerns over the safety and treatment of foreign nationals travelling to South Africa.
Moroe said South Africa remained safe for legitimate travellers, urging Nigerians to distinguish isolated incidents of crime from the general character of the country and its people.
He said reports circulating in mainstream and social media should not be regarded as a reflection of the average South African or the entire country.
According to him, the South African government condemns criminality, stressing that crime should not be associated with nationality.
Moroe also referred to the South African Constitution, which affirms that the country belongs to all who live in it, while explaining the distinction between illegal migration and undocumented migration.
The South African Tourism Board representative, Mohammed Kwajaffa, described Nigeria as one of South Africa’s most important tourism source markets.
Kwajaffa said the objective was to rebuild confidence among Nigerian travellers, showcase new tourism experiences and encourage visitors to explore destinations beyond the traditional attractions.
For South African Airways, connectivity remains central to expanding tourism and business between the two countries.
The airline’s representative, Kemi Leke Bamtefa, said SAA was committed to reliable air connectivity and competitive fares capable of encouraging Nigerians to travel to South Africa for leisure, business and family visits.
The President of NANTA, Dr. Yinka Folami, called for deliberate efforts to address historical, educational and perception gaps affecting relations between Nigerians and South Africans.
Folami said stronger engagement between the two countries would ultimately contribute to broader African integration, while NATOP President, Bolaji Mustapha, advocated renewed joint marketing campaigns with the South African Tourism Board to promote South Africa as a safe, diverse and affordable destination.
The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria South Africa Chamber of Commerce, Iyke Ejimofor, said tourism and trade were closely connected, noting that increased travel between both countries would also create opportunities for business. Stakeholders consequently resolved to intensify joint marketing, improve information sharing on safety, visa requirements and tourism products, strengthen air connectivity and deepen trade and tourism cooperation. They also agreed to adopt more positive communication, provide better public education, put historical issues in context and correct lingering negative perceptions.