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The Taming of Nigerians in Ghana and South Africa: What Exactly Is the Crime of Being Nigerian?
The Taming of Nigerians in Ghana and South Africa: What Exactly Is the Crime of Being Nigerian?
Written by George Omagbemi Sylvester
Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
In recent years, Nigerians living in Ghana and South Africa have faced targeted discrimination, xenophobia and state-backed crackdowns that have left many questioning: What is truly wrong? Is the problem with the Nigerian people? Our government? Or is it rooted in envy, fear or cultural misunderstanding? The situation has worsened so much that the word “Nigerian” now evokes caution, hostility or outright rejection in countries where we were once welcomed as brothers. It is time to dissect this crisis with brutal honesty.
Nigeria: Giant or Target Let’s start from the obvious. Nigeria is the most populous black nation on earth, with over 220 million people, a dominant cultural influence and economic reach that stretches across Africa. Nigerians are visible in nearly every industry; from banking, tech, fashion, music, academics and more professionally. From the bustling markets of Accra to the high-rise offices in Johannesburg, the Nigerian footprint is evident, but that footprint has turned into a target.
In 2019, South Africa witnessed some of the most brutal anti-immigrant violence in modern African history. Nigerians were chased, beaten and even killed under the pretext that they “took jobs” from locals and were “criminals.” Ironically, many of these Nigerians were legal immigrants, business owners or skilled workers. The same narrative plays out in Ghana, where the government continues to harass Nigerian traders, shutting down their shops, demanding unrealistic business capital requirements and subtly encouraging nationalist sentiments.
We must ask: Is this about CRIME or is it about COMPETITION?
Envy Masquerading as Nationalism. Professor PLO Lumumba of Kenya once said, “The tragedy of Africa is that Africans are in the business of colonizing themselves.” The treatment of Nigerians abroad is not about our attitudes or our government alone. it is about envy. Envy of our dominance in trade. Envy of our linguistic confidence. Envy of our fearlessness in the face of adversity. Nigerians are loud because we are expressive; we are bold because we are survivors.
As music icon Burna Boy said, “We are Africans, but Nigerians carry the spirit of resilience in extra doses.” Unfortunately, this same resilience has become a threat to host nations who feel overshadowed economically, culturally and even socially by Nigerians.
In Ghana, Nigerians control significant portions of the retail market. In South Africa, Nigerians are deeply involved in hospitality, entertainment, education, sports and legal enterprise. Instead of collaboration, these successes have sparked coordinated efforts to frustrate Nigerian migrants. And local governments, failing to address their own unemployment and corruption, deflect blame by scapegoating foreigners and especially Nigerians.
Government Failure and Diplomatic Weakness. While the governments of Ghana and South Africa must be held accountable for the injustices, we cannot ignore the negligence of Nigeria’s own leadership. Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has responded to these attacks with cowardly press statements and useless diplomatic jargon. Where is the assertiveness of a government defending its people abroad?
When South African mobs killed and injured Nigerians, the Nigerian government did not demand justice with urgency or economic sanctions. When Ghanaian authorities locked Nigerian shops, our diplomatic mission begged instead of taking a firm stand. As former South African president Thabo Mbeki once warned, “We must deal with the real causes of our problems not find scapegoats among those who come to us in peace.”
Nigeria has the economic power to retaliate. Our imports and exports to these nations are substantial. Nigerian-owned businesses bring millions of dollars into these host economies annually. Yet, we act like a toothless giant; feared only for our population, but respected by none just because our government lacks the will to defend its people.
Are Nigerians Too Loud? This is a common accusation that Nigerians are too loud, too flashy, too aggressive, but what critics call “loud” is often just confidence. Nigerians do not whisper in the face of injustice. We don’t shrink in foreign lands. We thrive and we let you know we are thriving. That is not a sin.
Cultural assertiveness is often mistaken for arrogance, but would we prefer to walk around heads bowed, pretending we are not the drivers of African innovation, culture and progress? Nigerians have a saying: “Person wey dey run no go carry last.” We push ourselves because our system has failed us and wherever we go, we push limits to survive.
LET US NOT APOLOGIZE FOR SUCCEEDING.
The Criminal Stereotype: Fact or Fabrication? Of course, not every Nigerian abroad is a saint. Like every country, Nigeria has its share of criminals; but to use the actions of a few to tarnish an entire nation is intellectually dishonest and morally bankrupt.
If crime is the issue, are Ghanaian or South African prisons filled with only Nigerians? Statistics from South Africa’s Department of Correctional Services reveal that Nigerians make up less than 5% of the foreign inmate population, a far cry from the image painted by media and mobs. In Ghana, less than 1% of foreign convicts are Nigerians. The real danger is not Nigerians; it is propaganda.
As Namibian freedom fighter Sam Nujoma once stated, “An injury to one African is an injury to all. We must never forget this sacred unity.” We must stop accepting the criminal stereotype and fight it with facts. The average Nigerian abroad is a student, a trader, a professional and not a threat.
What Must Be Done?
1. Nigeria Must Fight for Its People.
Our government must take decisive steps; economic retaliations, policy reviews and protective diplomacy. If you touch one Nigerian, you touch us all. That must be our foreign policy mantra.
2. African Unity Must Be More Than a Slogan.
The African Union and ECOWAS must stop pretending and start acting. Attacks on Nigerians are attacks on African unity. Countries hosting Nigerians must be held accountable for hate crimes and institutional xenophobia.
3. Change the Narrative.
Nigerians abroad must actively promote positive stories. From Dr. Philip Ozuah, CEO of Montefiore Health System in the U.S., to Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie in literature, we have heroes. Let their stories be louder than the noise of our detractors.
4. Nigerians Must Be Vigilant.
Avoid illegal activities, yes, but also avoid silence. Form communities. Work with local authorities. Use the law. Fight stereotypes with excellence.
My Final Thoughts on This.
The targeting of Nigerians in Ghana and South Africa is not just about crime, noise. (Loud) or culture. It is a mix of government failure, local envy and institutional scapegoating. Nigerians must not COWER. We are not PERFECT, but we are POWERFUL. Our diaspora drives Africa’s intellectual, creative and economic engine. Rather than bow our heads, we must raise our voices and assert our right to live, work and thrive wherever we are. As Kwame Nkrumah once declared, “The forces that unite us are intrinsic and greater than the superimposed influences that keep us apart.” That unity must start with Africans protecting Nigerians and Nigeria protecting Nigerians.
Written by George Omagbemi Sylvester
Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
FirstBank Makes Home Ownership Possible for Nigerians with Single-Digit Interest Rate Loan
For millions of Nigerians, homeownership has long felt like an ambition deferred. Squeezed by rising property prices, persistent double-digit inflation and high commercial lending rates, the dream of owning a home has remained just that – a dream.
But that narrative is quietly changing. Thanks to FirstBank.
The N1 Trillion Intervention Reshaping Access
In partnership with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF), FirstBank has unveiled a mortgage opportunity that could redefine access to housing finance in Nigeria.
Backed by the Federal Government’s N1trillion mortgage fund, the initiative is designed to empower Nigerians with affordable, long-term credit to own their homes.
9.75% Interest Rate in a 30% Lending Environment
MREIF is priced at 9.75% per annum, dramatically lower than prevailing commercial loan rates. Eligible Nigerians can access up to N100 million and repay within 20 years. This translates into significantly more manageable monthly repayments and greater long-term financial stability.
Built for Salary Earners, Entrepreneurs and the Diaspora
The MREIF mortgage facility has been structured to be inclusive. It is available to salary account holders, business owners and diaspora customers. Whether you are a young professional aiming to exit the rent cycle, an entrepreneur building generational stability, or you’re a Nigerian abroad looking to secure assets locally, the product opens a pathway that has historically been out of reach for many.
Taking the First Step
For those who have been waiting for the right time, this is definitely it. The question is no longer whether homeownership is possible. The real question is: will you act before the window narrows?
Visit https://www.firstbanknigeria.com/personal/loans/mreif-home-loan/ and in no time you could be the latest homeowner in town.
Alpha Morgan Bank Deepens Presence in Abuja with New Branch in Utako
Marking another milestone in its expansion drive, Alpha Morgan Bank has opened a new branch in Utako, Abuja, reinforcing its strategy of building closer institutional ties within key business communities and bringing its financial expertise closer to individuals, and enterprises driving the city’s growth.
The new branch, located at Plot 1121 Obafemi Awolowo Way, Utako, Abuja is strategically positioned to serve individuals, entrepreneurs, and corporate clients within Utako and surrounding districts.
The expansion follows the Bank’s recently concluded Economic Review Webinar held in February 2026, as the bank continues to position as a thought-leader in the financial services industry.
Speaking on the opening, Ade Buraimo, Managing Director of Alpha Morgan Bank, said the move underscores the Bank’s commitment to accessibility and service excellence.
“Proximity matters in banking. As communities grow and commercial activity expands, financial institutions also evolve to meet customers where they are. The Utako Branch allows us to deliver our services to people in that community efficiently while maintaining the high standards our customers expect,”
The Utako location will provide a full suite of retail and corporate banking services, including account opening, deposits, transfers, business banking solutions, and financial advisory support.
Customers and members of the public are invited to visit the new Utako Branch to experience the Bank’s approach to satisfying banking.
Dangote Refinery Prioritises Domestic Supply Amid Global Energy Turbulence
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
“Nigeria insulated from international fuel shocks as Dangote Petroleum commits to uninterrupted local delivery.”
Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritising the domestic market, pledging to shield Nigerians from the ripple effects of ongoing global energy disruptions. The assurance, delivered in Lagos on 5 March 2026, comes as international refinery operations experience shutdowns or reduced output due to escalating Middle East geopolitical tensions, which have sent crude oil and petroleum product prices soaring worldwide.
“Our mandate remains clear: Nigeria’s local market takes precedence. In times of global supply shocks, we will continue to ensure that domestic availability of petrol, diesel, and kerosene is uninterrupted,” said Mr. Folorunsho Alakija, spokesperson for Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
The refinery’s declaration arrives amid mounting concerns over fuel scarcity, triggered by export restrictions imposed by major international producers, including China, and shipping delays that have further tightened global petroleum supply chains. Industry analysts have hailed the domestic focus as a critical buffer against volatility that could otherwise push Nigeria into deeper energy insecurity.
Domestic Shield Against Global Disruption
Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest oil processing facility, has leveraged its multi-million-barrel refining capacity to mitigate Nigeria’s historical dependence on imported petroleum products. The company emphasised that prioritising local supply provides a strategic advantage in insulating the nation from international market shocks.
“Our refinery’s scale allows Nigeria to withstand short-term external disruptions. We have the infrastructure and capacity to meet local demand even when global supply chains falter,” explained Mr. Chijioke Okonkwo, Operations Director at Dangote Refinery.
The proactive approach is particularly significant as several international refineries have either reduced throughput or temporarily halted operations, causing a global scarcity of refined products. Experts warn that without domestic cushioning, fuel prices in Nigeria could have surged sharply, exacerbating inflationary pressures in a fragile economy.
Managing Costs While Prioritising Supply
In response to rising procurement costs for crude oil amid the international crisis, Dangote Refinery introduced a modest ₦100 per litre increase in the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), absorbing roughly 20 percent of the cost escalation to lessen the impact on consumers.
“We are balancing operational sustainability with affordability. While global prices have risen sharply, we have chosen to absorb a significant portion to protect Nigerian households and businesses,” noted Mr. Emmanuel Adeyemi, Chief Finance Officer.
This pricing strategy underscores the refinery’s dual focus: ensuring uninterrupted supply while cushioning the public from abrupt spikes that could destabilize economic activity. Industry observers have lauded the approach as pragmatic, considering the volatility in international oil markets.
Strategic Distribution Initiatives
Beyond refining, Dangote Petroleum has initiated Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered trucks to enhance nationwide distribution efficiency. The initiative seeks to reduce logistics costs and carbon emissions while ensuring a more reliable delivery network to petrol stations across urban and rural areas.
“Logistics is a critical part of the energy supply chain. By deploying CNG-powered trucks, we reduce dependency on expensive diesel, lower delivery costs, and improve supply reliability across the country,” explained Ms. Funke Adedoyin, Head of Logistics Operations.
This strategic move reflects a broader commitment to modernising Nigeria’s petroleum distribution infrastructure, reducing bottlenecks that have historically contributed to scarcity at retail outlets.
Implications for National Energy Security
Nigeria has historically struggled with fuel imports to meet domestic demand, making the country vulnerable to international market fluctuations. Dangote Refinery’s prioritisation of local supply mitigates this vulnerability by leveraging home-grown refining capacity, which allows for timely access to petroleum products and less reliance on foreign shipments.
“With Dangote Refinery leading local prioritisation, Nigeria is less exposed to global fuel shocks. The country is moving towards self-reliance in petroleum product supply,” commented Dr. Halima Suleiman, energy sector analyst.
Experts note that sustained operations at the refinery not only enhance energy security but also preserve foreign exchange, reduce import bills, and stabilise domestic market prices.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Market Stability
The refinery’s commitment is part of a broader corporate responsibility framework. Dangote Petroleum continues to engage with government agencies and regulatory bodies, ensuring that domestic supply is coordinated with Nigeria’s Petroleum Product Pricing and Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) to prevent panic buying and market distortions.
“We are in constant consultation with the government to ensure that our supply strategies align with national economic priorities,” said Mr. Alakija.
Such collaboration helps avert artificial shortages, stabilises pump prices, and maintains confidence in the domestic fuel market. Analysts argue that this approach exemplifies how private sector capabilities can complement governmental policies to enhance national resilience.
Navigating Global Uncertainties
The refinery operates in a complex global environment, where geopolitical crises, shipping constraints, and crude oil volatility can trigger disruptions. Dangote Petroleum’s domestic-first approach positions Nigeria to weather such crises more effectively.
“Global uncertainties are unavoidable, but our infrastructure and strategy ensure that Nigerians remain insulated from immediate shocks,” said Mr. Okonkwo.
This emphasis on resilience aligns with global best practices, where national refining capacity is leveraged to protect local markets from international supply disruptions.
Stakeholder Reactions
The government, civil society, and industry stakeholders have welcomed Dangote Petroleum’s strategy. Officials from the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources noted that prioritising local supply aligns with Nigeria’s energy security policies and reduces the burden of foreign exchange expenditures on crude imports.
“Dangote Refinery is demonstrating leadership. Its domestic prioritisation ensures that the Nigerian economy remains insulated during turbulent global markets,” said Dr. Tunji Olumide, Special Adviser on Energy.
Consumers have also expressed cautious optimism. Retail operators and commuters reported steadier fuel availability in Lagos and other cities, though concerns remain about sustained pricing and distribution efficiency.
The Road Ahead
While Dangote Refinery’s strategy provides immediate relief, experts argue that long-term stability requires further investments in alternative energy, diversified refining infrastructure, and strategic reserves. This ensures that Nigeria can withstand global shocks without relying excessively on imports or temporary supply adjustments.
“Short-term measures like prioritising local supply are critical, but long-term energy security demands diversification, renewables adoption, and consistent policy implementation,” said Dr. Suleiman.
The refinery is exploring additional initiatives, including expanding storage capacity, upgrading pipeline networks, and adopting technology-driven monitoring systems to ensure supply continuity across the country.
Final Take
By prioritising domestic fuel supply amid global market turbulence, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has demonstrated its role as a stabilising force in Nigeria’s energy sector. Through strategic logistics, modest pricing adjustments, and engagement with government regulators, the refinery is insulating the nation from international shocks while maintaining operational sustainability.
“Our responsibility extends beyond profitability; it’s about ensuring Nigerians have reliable access to essential fuel. We take that mandate seriously,” concluded Mr. Adeyemi.
The refinery’s actions offer a blueprint for how large-scale domestic capacity can protect national economies in times of global energy instability, underscoring the critical intersection of private sector resilience, public policy, and national energy security.
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