Nigerians in South Africa Call on Fani‑kayode to End Passport Delays and Xenophobia

Nigerian passport delays have become a flashpoint for the growing frustration of Nigerians living and working in South Africa, as the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) publicly appealed to newly appointed High Commissioner Femi Fani‑Kayode to intervene. In a statement released in October 2026, the union warned that prolonged processing times not only hinder travel and business but also exacerbate xenophobic tensions that have resurfaced across major South African cities.

Background: A diaspora under pressure

Since the early 2000s, South Africa has been a top destination for Nigerian professionals, traders, and students seeking better opportunities. While the country offers a vibrant economy and a relatively stable political environment, recent spikes in xenophobic incidents have cast a shadow over the Nigerian community. In 2024, a series of attacks in Durban and Pretoria left dozens injured and sparked diplomatic protests from Abuja.

Against this backdrop, the issue of passport processing has taken on new urgency. Many Nigerians rely on timely passport renewal to travel for work, attend family events, or return home for holidays. Delays at the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, where the consular section is responsible for issuing and renewing passports, have reportedly stretched from the standard three‑week window to over three months for some applicants.

Why passport delays matter now

Delays in passport issuance have a ripple effect on several fronts. First, they impede the ability of Nigerians to secure employment contracts that require travel visas, especially in sectors like oil and gas, ICT, and academia where cross‑border assignments are common. Second, they limit the capacity of Nigerians to respond quickly to family emergencies—a cultural priority that resonates deeply across African societies.

Third, and perhaps most critically, the backlog fuels resentment among local South Africans who perceive Nigerians as “illegal” or “unregistered” migrants, even when they hold valid visas. This perception fuels xenophobic rhetoric, leading to isolated attacks that threaten lives and property.

Fani‑Kayode’s mandate: diplomatic bridge‑building

Femi Fani‑Kayode, a former Minister of Aviation and a seasoned politician, was appointed High Commissioner to South Africa in early 2026. His portfolio includes strengthening bilateral trade, protecting the welfare of Nigerians abroad, and fostering cultural ties. The union’s appeal to him underscores three core demands:

1. Accelerate passport processing: Streamline consular services by increasing staff, adopting digital application platforms, and coordinating with the Department of Home Affairs to avoid duplication.
2. Engage South African authorities: Initiate dialogue with the South African government, civil society, and law‑enforcement agencies to address xenophobic hotspots and develop joint community‑safety programmes.
3. Public communication campaign: Launch a transparent information drive to keep Nigerians informed about processing times, required documents, and steps to take in case of emergencies.

These steps, if implemented, could restore confidence among the diaspora and signal to South Africans that the Nigerian government is committed to responsible migration.

Practical steps for Nigerians awaiting passports in South Africa

While diplomatic negotiations unfold, individuals can take proactive measures to minimise inconvenience:

• Verify documentation: Ensure all supporting documents—birth certificate, national ID, and previous passport—are up‑to‑date and correctly scanned.
• Use the online appointment system: The High Commission’s website now offers a real‑time slot booking tool that reduces waiting time at the consular desk.
• Seek interim travel letters: In urgent cases, request a temporary travel endorsement from the consular officer, which can be presented to airlines for short‑term trips.
• Stay informed via NUSA alerts: The union’s WhatsApp and email newsletters provide real‑time updates on processing times and safety advisories.

These measures do not replace systemic reforms but can alleviate personal stress while broader solutions are pursued.

Addressing xenophobia: Community‑level interventions

Beyond diplomatic channels, community‑based initiatives are essential to curb xenophobic sentiment. Successful models from Ghana and Kenya demonstrate that joint cultural festivals, business expos, and youth exchange programmes can foster mutual understanding. NUSA proposes the following pilot projects for 2027:

1. Neighbourhood watch collaborations: Partnering Nigerian community leaders with local South African ward committees to monitor and report hate incidents.
2. Economic empowerment workshops: Offering skills‑training sessions that benefit both Nigerian entrepreneurs and local residents, reducing competition‑driven hostility.
3. Inter‑faith dialogue forums: Leveraging churches, mosques, and traditional bodies to discuss shared values and dispel myths about illegal immigration.

These grassroots efforts complement high‑level diplomatic talks and create a resilient social fabric that can resist flare‑ups.

Regional implications: A wake‑up call for African diaspora policy

The challenges faced by Nigerians in South Africa echo broader trends across the continent. In 2025, the African Union adopted a “Continental Migration Charter” urging member states to protect migrant rights and streamline consular services. However, implementation remains uneven. Nigeria’s proactive stance, championed by Fani‑Kayode, could set a precedent for other diaspora‑heavy nations such as Ghana, Kenya, and Ethiopia.

By addressing passport delays and xenophobia head‑on, Nigeria not only safeguards its citizens but also reinforces Africa’s commitment to free movement of people—a cornerstone of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) that aims to boost intra‑African trade by 2027.

FAQ

What is the current average processing time for a Nigerian passport in South Africa?

As of October 2026, the High Commission reports an average of six to eight weeks, though many applicants experience longer waits due to staffing shortages.

Can I travel while my passport renewal is pending?

Yes, you may request a temporary travel endorsement for urgent trips. This document is valid for up to 30 days and must be presented alongside a valid visa.

How can I report a xenophobic incident?

Report immediately to the nearest South African Police Service (SAPS) station, then inform NUSA via their 24‑hour hotline (0800‑NUSA‑HELP). The union will liaise with both Nigerian and South African authorities to ensure follow‑up.

Looking ahead

With Fani‑Kayode’s diplomatic acumen and the collective pressure from NUSA, there is cautious optimism that 2027 will see tangible improvements. A streamlined passport system and a coordinated anti‑xenophobia strategy could transform South Africa into a safer, more welcoming hub for Nigerians and other African migrants alike.

For continuous updates, Nigerians are encouraged to follow official channels, including the High Commission’s social media pages and NUSA’s community bulletins.

Source: Punch Newspaper

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