Nigerian Community Leaders Urge Diaspora in South Africa to Obey Laws, Avoid Criminal Activity
The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa has concluded a crime awareness webinar urging members to respect host-country laws and maintain proper documentation, amid ongoing tensions between Nigerian and South Af
Leaders of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa have advised members to respect and obey the laws of their host country and ensure they maintain proper documentation and valid immigration status.
The guidance came during a crime awareness webinar titled 'Living Lawfully in South Africa' that concluded this week. In a statement released on May 23, the association's president, Rev Frank Onyekwelu, urged Nigerians to avoid involvement in criminal activities including fraud, drugs, cybercrime, and violence.
The Webinar's Message
"The webinar served as an important platform to educate, enlighten, and empower Nigerians residing in South Africa on the importance of lawful conduct, community responsibility, and protecting the integrity of the Nigerian identity abroad," the statement said.
The association emphasised that as Nigerians continue to contribute positively to South Africa's economic, academic, religious, and social development, it remains critical to uphold values that promote peace, dignity, and respect for the laws of the host country.
During the session, participants were encouraged to embrace key principles for lawful living and protecting the Nigerian image abroad.
Why This Matters
The intervention comes against a backdrop of longstanding tensions between Nigerian and South African communities. Nigerians in South Africa have faced xenophobic violence in past years, and negative stereotypes about Nigerian involvement in crime have persisted in South African public discourse.
The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa has positioned itself as a bridge between the diaspora community and South African authorities, advocating for the rights of Nigerians while also promoting responsible conduct.
The webinar reflects a broader strategy by diaspora organisations to proactively address community concerns and improve relations with host countries. By publicly urging members to maintain lawful conduct, the association aims to counter negative narratives while ensuring that Nigerians in South Africa protect their legal status and safety.
What Comes Next
The association has indicated it will continue organising educational sessions and outreach programmes to support Nigerians living in South Africa. Community leaders are expected to maintain dialogue with South African authorities on issues affecting the Nigerian diaspora, including immigration procedures and safety concerns.
