Youth Coalition Issues Ultimatum to South African Companies in Nigeria
A coalition of youth organizations, convened under the Nigeria Youth Union Government (NYUG) and in partnership with the Emerging Leaders Forum of Nigeria (ELFON), has issued a 30-day ultimatum to South African companies operating in Nigeria, demanding they cease their operations and exit the country. This action follows a surge of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.
Call to Action at Press Conference
The ultimatum was announced during a press conference in Abuja on Friday, where Godstime Chukwubuikem Samuel criticized the South African government for its inadequate protection of Nigerian citizens and their businesses amid repeated xenophobic incidents.
Targeted South African Businesses
The group has specifically named several South African entities, including MTN, MultiChoice (owners of DStv and GOtv), Stanbic IBTC Bank, Protea Hotels, and Shoprite, instructing them to wind down their operations and leave Nigeria by August 10, 2026.
Appeal to South African Nationals
In addition, the coalition urged South African nationals residing in Nigeria to depart by the same deadline. The statement emphasized, “We join all well-meaning Nigerians in calling for South Africans living in Nigeria to leave our country by August 10, 2026.”
Letter to the Federal Government
In correspondence with the Nigerian federal government, the coalition called on multiple ministries—including Home Affairs, Labor and Employment, and Foreign Affairs—to revoke various permits and official recognitions granted to South African nationals operating in Nigeria.
Response to Xenophobic Violence
The coalition’s demands stem from recent reports of violence, including the killings of Nigerians and destruction of their businesses during xenophobic attacks in South Africa. They expressed their outrage, stating that “it would have been bearable to just ask people to leave South Africa, but their businesses were destroyed and people were killed in cold blood.”
Criticism of Government Compensation
Additionally, the coalition condemned the Nigerian federal government’s decision to offer ₦500,000 as compensation to affected citizens returning from South Africa, arguing that the amount is grossly insufficient. “A Nigerian life is worth much more than ₦500,000,” they stated.
Demands for Transparency in Diplomatic Engagements
The coalition further urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to disclose the outcomes of their discussions with the South African government regarding compensation for Nigerians who faced losses, including the families of those who lost their lives in recent attacks. A formal letter outlining these demands will be sent to the South African High Commission in Abuja alongside relevant federal agencies.
Context of Diplomatic Tensions
This ultimatum emerges amid ongoing diplomatic strains between Nigeria and South Africa, driven by recurring xenophobic violence against foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians. Past incidents have spurred diplomatic protests, evacuations, and renewed calls for effective bilateral measures aimed at protecting citizens and their businesses in both nations.
