My final engagement in South Africa was yesterday in Johannesburg with my interaction with Nigerians in the diaspora. The discussions were frank, emotional, and deeply reflective of the realities confronting our people both at home and abroad.
The conversation was interrupted several times by passionate questions bordering on diplomacy, the treatment of Nigerians in foreign countries, the political situation back home, and the growing desire of many young Nigerians abroad to return home and contribute meaningfully to nation-building, if only the environment becomes conducive.
I also reminded our people that the respect any citizen receives abroad is often tied to how respected their nation is at home. A country that works, protects its institutions, upholds justice, and cares for its people naturally commands global respect. This is why leadership and governance must remain people-oriented, accountable, and rooted in competence and integrity.
While acknowledging the frustrations and pains many expressed, I emphasized the need for all of us to continue to conduct ourselves within the ambit of the law, irrespective of the provocation or difficulties we face. Nation-building demands discipline, civic responsibility, and the willingness to pursue change through constructive engagement.
The interaction further reinforced my belief that Nigerians across the world remain hopeful about the future of our nation despite the present challenges. Our task as leaders is to inspire that hope with sincerity, measurable action, and a commitment to building a secure, productive, and inclusive Nigeria.
A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO
After speaking with Nigerians in Cape Town yesterday, I was able to have meaningful discussions this morning with three South African ministers and political party leaders regarding the ongoing challenges related to immigration, regional collaboration, and fostering peaceful coexistence between our nations.
I had the pleasure of meeting with Mr Leon Schreiber, the South African Minister of Home Affairs and a prominent figure in the Democratic Alliance; Mr Velenkosini Hlabisa, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP); and Mr Gayton McKenzie, the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture and leader of the Patriotic Alliance (PA).
Our conversations were productive and candid, focusing on the current challenges that affect both countriesโparticularly those related to migration, economic strains, youth unemployment, security issues, and the rising tensions faced by African foreigners in South Africa.
I firmly believe that Nigeria and South Africa, both prominent African nations, must enhance dialogue, bolster cooperation, and seek solutions based on justice, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law. In challenging times, leaders and citizens alike need to demonstrate responsible leadership, compassion, and restraint.
We collectively stressed the importance of law-abiding behaviour, avoiding violence, resisting hate or provocation, and allowing lawful institutions to address grievances through democratic and constitutional processes, regardless of the challenges we face.
The progress of Africa hinges on our ability to create unity, foster economic inclusivity, invest in our communities, and uphold the dignity of every African, no matter where they live. -PO
I no go generalize Yoruba ke? yโall act the same. Just look at the CS, barely any Yoruba person is calling it out. But if it were an Igbo person that made the same post, fellow Igbos wouldโve already started dragging the person for shifting the goalpost and embarrassing everyone.