South Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe and seamless travel for Nigerian visitors as both countries seek to deepen tourism, trade and cultural relations.
The commitment was reiterated at the South Africa Tourism Connect held on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Heritage Place, Ikoyi, Lagos.
The event brought together representatives of the South African Tourism Board, the Nigeria–South Africa Chamber of Commerce, South African Airways (SAA), the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) and the National Association of Nigeria Tour Operators (NATOP).
The gathering focused on rebuilding confidence among Nigerian travellers, promoting South Africa’s tourism offerings and strengthening cooperation between stakeholders in both countries.
South Africa Addresses Safety Concerns
Delivering the opening remarks, the Acting High Commissioner and Consul-General of South Africa, Prof. Bobby J. Moroe, addressed concerns surrounding the safety and treatment of foreign nationals in the country.
Moroe said South Africa remained safe for legitimate travellers, while cautioning against treating isolated incidents reported in mainstream and social media as a reflection of the entire country.
“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,” he said.
The envoy also stated that the South African Government condemned criminality, stressing that crime should not be associated with any nationality.
“Crime has no nationality,” Moroe said.
He further referenced the South African Constitution, which states that the country belongs to all who live in it, while distinguishing between illegal migration and undocumented migration.
Stakeholders Seek Stronger Tourism Cooperation
Speaking on the importance of the Nigerian market, Mohammed Kwajaffa of the South African Tourism Board described Nigeria as one of South Africa’s most important source markets.
Kwajaffa said the organisation was seeking to rebuild confidence, showcase new tourism experiences and make it easier for Nigerians to explore destinations beyond the country’s traditional attractions.
He said South Africa’s tourism offerings extended beyond its well-known destinations, adding that stronger engagement with Nigerian travel stakeholders would help promote a wider range of experiences.
For South African Airways, improved connectivity remains central to the growth of tourism between both countries.
Kemi Leke-Bamtefa, representing the airline, said reliable air connectivity and competitive fares would encourage more Nigerians to travel to South Africa for business, leisure and family visits.
She reaffirmed SAA’s commitment to supporting travel between Nigeria and South Africa through improved airlift.
NANTA, NATOP Call for Better Public Information
The President of NANTA, Dr Yinka Folami, said Nigerian travel agencies had the membership strength and pan-African outlook to promote South Africa as a destination.
However, he stressed the need to address historical, educational and perception gaps that could affect the relationship between both countries.
Folami said stronger efforts were needed to restore confidence and improve understanding between Nigerians and South Africans.
The President of NATOP, Bolaji Mustapha, said tour operators were interested in presenting South Africa as a safe, diverse and affordable destination.
She called for stronger collaboration with the South African Tourism Board, including the revival of joint marketing campaigns.
Mustapha said the discussions at the event would provide tour operators with better tools to package and promote South Africa to Nigerian travellers.
Tourism and Trade Linkages
The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria–South Africa Chamber of Commerce, Iyke Ejimofor, emphasised the close relationship between tourism and trade.
Ejimofor said Nigerians travelling to South Africa often combine leisure with business activities, making the travel corridor important to both economies.
He called for measures to protect and strengthen the relationship, noting that tourism and trade should be developed together.
Stakeholders Agree on Joint Actions
Participants at the event agreed to intensify joint marketing campaigns aimed at Nigerian travellers.
They also resolved to improve information sharing on safety, visa requirements and new tourism products available to visitors.
Other areas of agreement included strengthening air connectivity and deepening trade-tourism linkages between Nigeria and South Africa.
Stakeholders further called for more positive communication to educate the public, provide historical context and correct lingering misconceptions about both countries.
The South Africa Tourism Connect is part of ongoing efforts by the South African Government and its tourism partners to improve perceptions of the country and position it as a leading destination for Nigerian leisure, business and diaspora travellers.
