The Republic of South Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe and seamless travel for Nigerian visitors, while deepening tourism, trade and cultural ties between both countries.
This was the key message at the South Africa Tourism Connect, held Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at Heritage Place, Ikoyi, Lagos.
The event brought together South Africa Tourism Board, The Nigeria South Africa Chamber of Commerce, South African Airways and Nigeria’s top travel trade bodies, National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) and National Association of Nigeria Tour Operators (NATOP).
Delivering the opening remarks, Bobby Moroe, the Acting High Commissioner and Consul-General of South Africa, addressed concerns around safety and the treatment of foreign nationals in South Africa.
“South Africa remains safe for legitimate travellers. Incidents reported in mainstream and social media should not be taken as a representation of the average South African or the entire country,” Moroe stated.
“The South African Government condemns criminality. Crime has no nationality.”
He further referenced the South African Constitution, which affirms that “South Africa belongs to all who live in it,” while distinguishing between illegal migration and undocumented migration.
Mohammed Kwajaffa of South African Tourism Board, said:
“Nigeria remains one of our most importanteriences, and make it easier for Nigerians to explore South Africa beyond the usual destinations.”
Kemi Leke-Bamtefa, South African Airways, added:
“Connectivity is key to tourism growth. SAA is committed to providing reliable airlift and competitive fares that will encourage more Nigerians to travel for business, leisure and family.”
Yinka Folami, President, NANTA, noted: “At NANTA, we have the membership strength and pan-african outlook to sell South Africa, what we need is for history, education, and perception gaps to be addressed squarely, to restore confidence. Nigeria-South Africa relationship strengthens Africa.”
Bolaji Mustapha, President, NATOP said: “Tour operators want to package South Africa as a safe, diverse and affordable destination. The conversations today give us the tools to do that better. Joint marketing with the South African Tourism Board should be revisited.”
Iyke Ejimofor, Executive Secretary, Nigeria–South Africa Chamber of Commerce, stated: “Tourism and trade go hand in hand. When Nigerians travel to South Africa, they also do business. We must protect that corridor.”
Stakeholders agreed to intensify joint marketing campaigns targeting Nigerian travellers, improve information sharing on safety, visa requirements and new tourism products, strengthen air connectivity and trade-tourism linkages between both countries and engage communication positively to provide education, situate history, and correct lingering perception.
The South Africa Tourism Connect is part of ongoing efforts by the South African Government and its tourism partners to correct perception and position South Africa as a top destination for Nigerian leisure, business, and diaspora travellers.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
