NANS Gives South African Companies in Nigeria 7-Day Ultimatum to Condemn Xenophobia or Face Shutdown

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a strongly worded seven-day ultimatum to all South African-owned businesses operating in Nigeria. The student body is demanding that these companies publicly and unequivocally condemn the recurring xenophobic violence against Nigerians in South Africa. Failure to comply, NANS warned, will result in coordinated nationwide protests, picketing, and possible forced closure of their operations across the country.

In a statement released on Monday, July 6, 2026, NANS President Comrade Olusola Oladoja said the association has reached the “breaking point” regarding the safety and dignity of Nigerians living and doing business in South Africa. The ultimatum specifically targets major South African brands such as MTN, Shoprite, Game, MultiChoice (DSTV/GOtv), and others with significant market presence in Nigeria.

“We are tired of watching our brothers and sisters being killed, displaced, and humiliated in South Africa while their companies continue to make billions of naira from our market,” Oladoja said. “These businesses have benefited immensely from Nigeria’s economy. It is only right that they use their influence to pressure the South African government to protect Nigerians and put an end to this madness.”

The latest wave of xenophobic tension in South Africa reached a peak during the so-called “National Shutdown” protests, which paralyzed major cities including Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban. The demonstrations, which began as complaints over undocumented migrants competing for jobs and resources, quickly turned violent. Several Nigerians were killed, many more were displaced, and businesses owned by foreigners were looted or destroyed. The crisis prompted the Nigerian government, working with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), to facilitate the evacuation of hundreds of its citizens. Air Peace, under the leadership of Chief Allen Onyema, played a prominent role by providing free flights for the returnees.

NANS described the situation as “state-tolerated xenophobia” and accused the South African authorities of failing to protect foreign nationals despite international obligations. The student body also criticised the Nigerian government for what it called a “lukewarm diplomatic response” to the repeated attacks on its citizens abroad.

The ultimatum gives South African companies exactly seven days to issue public statements condemning the violence, commit to supporting affected Nigerians, and use their corporate influence to lobby the South African government for better protection of foreigners. If these conditions are not met, NANS says it will mobilise students, youths, and civil society groups to begin protests at all South African business premises nationwide.

South African companies have substantial investments in Nigeria. MTN Nigeria is one of the largest telecommunications operators in the country, serving over 80 million subscribers and contributing significantly to government tax revenue. Shoprite and Game dominate the retail sector, while MultiChoice commands a large share of the pay-TV market. Collectively, these businesses employ tens of thousands of Nigerians and generate billions of naira in annual revenue.

Industry analysts warn that a sustained protest or shutdown campaign by NANS could cause serious reputational and financial damage to these companies. Some experts suggest that if the situation escalates, it could lead to a review of operating licenses or increased regulatory scrutiny by Nigerian authorities.

This is not the first time South Africa has faced accusations of xenophobia. Major outbreaks occurred in 2008, 2015, 2019, and 2022, with Nigerians often being primary targets due to perceptions that they dominate certain businesses and professions. In many cases, the violence has been fueled by misinformation, economic frustration, and political rhetoric that blames foreigners for high unemployment and service delivery failures in South Africa.

Nigeria and South Africa have historically enjoyed strong diplomatic and economic ties as two of Africa’s largest economies. However, repeated xenophobic incidents have strained relations, leading to diplomatic protests, product boycotts, and, in some cases, the recall of ambassadors.

The NANS ultimatum has received mixed reactions. While many Nigerians support the move as a legitimate expression of patriotism and solidarity, others caution that targeting legitimate businesses could harm Nigerian workers employed by these companies and damage the country’s image as an investment destination.

The Nigerian government has so far maintained a measured diplomatic approach. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has continued to engage South African authorities through formal channels, while also facilitating the safe return of affected citizens. However, there are growing calls from civil society and some lawmakers for a more robust response, including possible economic sanctions or a review of bilateral trade agreements.

As the seven-day deadline approaches, South African businesses in Nigeria are expected to consult with their headquarters in Johannesburg and Pretoria. Industry sources say most companies are likely to issue carefully worded statements condemning violence while trying to avoid being drawn into the political complexities of xenophobia.

For NANS, the ultimatum represents more than just a protest. It is part of a larger campaign to protect the dignity of Nigerians at home and abroad. The coming days will determine whether this threat translates into concrete action or remains a symbolic expression of frustration.