Air Peace CEO Allen Onyema Calls for Boycott of South Africa Over Xenophobic Attacks on Nigerians

Air Peace CEO Allen Onyema Calls for Boycott of South Africa Over Xenophobic Attacks on Nigerians

"Don't Invest in South Africa" – Allen Onyema Urges Nigerians to Take Economic Action

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has called on Nigerians to respond to recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa through a peaceful economic boycott rather than violence.

Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, Onyema urged Nigerians to stop investing in South Africa while encouraging South African businesses to continue operating in Nigeria under fair regulations set by the Nigerian government.

His comments come amid renewed anti-foreigner protests in parts of South Africa, where demonstrators have reportedly demanded that undocumented migrants leave the country by June 30, sparking concerns among African communities and prompting repatriation efforts by Nigeria and other affected nations.

Allen Onyema Advocates Non-Violent Retaliation

According to Onyema, economic action is a more effective and civilized response than violence or destruction of property.

«"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-violence action," Onyema stated.»

The Air Peace founder emphasized that Nigerians should channel their frustrations into strategic economic decisions rather than street protests or attacks on South African-owned businesses.

Criticism of South African Authorities

Onyema also questioned the South African government's response to repeated xenophobic incidents, accusing authorities of failing to adequately protect foreign nationals living and working in the country.

He expressed concern over reports of migrants being harassed, profiled, and threatened during anti-foreigner demonstrations.

According to him, it is difficult to understand how security agencies allegedly fail to intervene when foreigners are targeted during periods of unrest.

Nigerians Contribute Significantly to South Africa's Economy

The prominent businessman highlighted the positive contributions many Nigerians have made to South Africa's economy through entrepreneurship, investment, and job creation.

He argued that instead of hostility, local communities should view immigrant entrepreneurs as partners in economic development.

Onyema noted that many Nigerians relocate to South Africa, establish businesses, create employment opportunities, and contribute to economic growth in their host communities.

Why Allen Onyema Opposes Attacks on South African Businesses in Nigeria

Despite his support for economic pressure, Onyema firmly rejected calls for violent retaliation against South Africans or companies operating in Nigeria.

He specifically opposed shutting down South African-owned businesses such as MTN and other major corporations, stressing that many Nigerians are shareholders and employees of those companies.

«"I don't want Nigeria to close down MTN or other people's businesses. Some Nigerians have shares in those companies. After all, those people are employing Nigerians too," he said.»

According to Onyema, destroying businesses would ultimately hurt Nigerian workers and investors rather than solve the underlying problem.

Growing Concerns Over Xenophobia in South Africa

The latest tensions have reignited discussions about xenophobia in South Africa, a challenge that has periodically strained relations between African nations for years.

Several incidents involving attacks on foreign nationals, including Nigerians, Zimbabweans, Ethiopians, and other African migrants, have drawn international criticism and calls for stronger protection measures.

Many observers believe the issue requires diplomatic engagement, improved immigration policies, economic cooperation, and stronger law enforcement to prevent future violence.

What This Means for Nigeria-South Africa Relations

Allen Onyema's comments are likely to fuel debate about the future of economic and diplomatic relations between Africa's two largest economies.

While some Nigerians support stronger retaliatory measures, others agree with Onyema's position that peaceful economic decisions and diplomatic pressure offer a more sustainable path forward.

As anti-foreigner protests continue to generate concern, many will be watching closely to see how both governments respond to growing calls for action and protection of African migrants.

Conclusion

Allen Onyema's message is clear: Nigerians should respond to xenophobia with strategic economic choices rather than violence. By encouraging a boycott of investments in South Africa while protecting businesses and jobs in Nigeria, the Air Peace CEO believes a non-violent approach can send a stronger message and promote lasting solutions to a long-standing problem.SEO Keywords

Allen Onyema

Air Peace CEO

South Africa xenophobic attacks

Nigerians in South Africa

Allen Onyema boycott South Africa

Xenophobia in South Africa

Nigeria South Africa relations

MTN Nigeria

African migrants in South Africa

Economic boycott South Africa

Description

Air Peace CEO Allen Onyema has urged Nigerians to boycott investments in South Africa over recurring xenophobic attacks while rejecting violence against South African businesses in Nigeria. Read the full story.