The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace Allen Onyema has called on Nigerians to adopt a non violent economic boycott of South Africa following recurring xenophobic attacks against African migrants including Nigerians
Onyema made the call during an interview on Arise Television on Tuesday where he urged Nigerians to stop investing in South Africa while encouraging foreign investors to invest in Nigeria under conditions determined by the Nigerian government
He accused South African authorities of failing to adequately protect foreign nationals during episodes of violence adding that security agencies in the country often appear absent when attacks occur
According to him Nigerian migrants contribute significantly to the South African economy by setting up businesses creating jobs and supporting local communities
He stressed that Nigerians who invest in South Africa bring capital and entrepreneurial skills that benefit the host country and should not be subjected to harassment or violence
While supporting stronger diplomatic responses Onyema rejected violent retaliation against South Africans or their businesses in Nigeria
He also opposed calls for shutting down South African owned companies operating in Nigeria noting that many Nigerians are shareholders and employees of such firms including MTN
The Air Peace chairman said economic pressure through reduced investment is a more effective and peaceful response than street violence
His comments come amid renewed anti foreigner protests in parts of South Africa where demonstrators have demanded that undocumented migrants leave the country by June thirty leading to repatriation efforts by Nigeria and other affected nations
