Manny Ita –
MTN Nigeria has reported one of its strongest quarterly profit performances in recent years, reigniting conversations around the economic dominance of South African companies in Nigeria at a time when many Nigerians continue to face hostility and xenophobic threats in South Africa.
The telecommunications giant recently announced impressive earnings driven by rising data consumption, tariff adjustments, digital service expansion, and a growing subscriber base across Nigeria. The company’s performance further cements Nigeria as one of the most profitable markets for South African-owned businesses operating on the continent.
However, the financial success has sparked emotional reactions among some Nigerians on social media and within civic groups, who argue that the economic relationship between both countries remains deeply uneven. Critics point to repeated incidents of xenophobic violence and anti-immigrant rhetoric targeting Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa over the years.
Since major outbreaks of xenophobic attacks began gaining international attention in 2008, Nigerians living in South Africa have periodically faced intimidation, looting, harassment, and violent attacks. Several incidents over the years led to deaths, destruction of businesses, and diplomatic tensions between Abuja and Pretoria. Nigerian-owned shops and properties were among those targeted during violent unrest in 2015 and 2019, forcing many residents into hiding while others returned home.
The attacks previously triggered protests in Nigeria, with angry demonstrators accusing South African authorities of failing to adequately protect foreign Africans despite the significant economic opportunities South African corporations enjoy across the continent, especially in Nigeria.
Companies linked to South African investments, including telecom, retail, and entertainment brands operating in Nigeria, have occasionally become the focus of public frustration during periods of heightened tension. Despite this, Nigerian consumers remain among the largest contributors to the revenues of several South African-owned firms.
Economic analysts note that Nigeria’s vast population and consumer market continue to make the country highly attractive to foreign investors, particularly major African multinationals. They argue that while business partnerships between African nations are essential for continental growth, governments must also ensure the protection and dignity of citizens living and working across borders.
Many Nigerians online say the contrast between the massive profits generated by South African companies in Nigeria and the recurring reports of xenophobic hostility against Nigerians abroad reflects a painful contradiction in African unity and regional integration.
Observers have also called for stronger diplomatic engagement between both nations, urging authorities to move beyond official condemnations and implement lasting protections for migrants and foreign business owners across Africa.
