Across the world, it is difficult to find a country where you will not meet a Nigerian. From Europe to Asia, Africa to the Americas, Nigerians are contributing to economies, building businesses, excelling in academics, and representing clubs in professional sports.
Nigerian footballers have proudly played in leagues across Finland, Estonia, South Korea, Belgium, Turkey, France, South Africa, and many other nations. Our citizens are global ambassadors whose talents and hard work deserve recognition, not hostility.
That is why I believe Senator Adams Oshiomhole's stance deserves the support of every patriotic Nigerian. His position may not completely end xenophobia, but it can send a strong message that Nigeria will no longer remain silent when its citizens are attacked, humiliated, or deprived of their livelihoods abroad. A nation that defends its people earns the respect of the international community.
Nigeria remains one of Africa's most accommodating countries. Millions of foreigners live, work, invest, and prosper here under the protection of our laws. That hospitality should be reciprocated. Respect should never be one-sided.
The administration of Cyril Ramaphosa has faced repeated criticism over xenophobic attacks that have affected foreign nationals, including Nigerians. Many Africans believe stronger and more decisive action is needed to prevent violence, protect innocent lives, and ensure those responsible are held accountable. No African government should allow hatred to define its relationship with fellow Africans.
Africa's strength lies in unity, not division. Every African leader has a responsibility to guarantee the safety of all law-abiding residents, regardless of their nationality. Failure to do so undermines the vision of an integrated and peaceful continent.
To Senator Adams Oshiomhole, I salute your courage. Your recent remarks show that the spirit of activism that shaped your public life is still alive. Whether or not everyone agrees with your proposal, you have voiced the concerns of many Nigerians who believe their country should stand firmly behind its citizens wherever they may be.
This conversation goes beyond xenophobic attacks in South Africa. It is about every Nigerian and indeed every African being treated with dignity, whether in Sierra Leone, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Europe, Asia, or anywhere else in the world. Every Nigerian deserves respect. Every Nigerian deserves protection. And Nigeria must continue to speak boldly whenever those principles are threatened.
Abioye Tosin Lawrence is the publisher of Oriontimes News, Author of Voices From the Fire: My Journey Through a Hollow Empire
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