Dear South Africans,
There was a time when South Africa did not stand alone. During the struggle against apartheid, Nigeria stood firmly with you, its government, and its ordinary people. Nigerians gave their money through the South African Relief Fund, welcomed your students into their schools, and pushed the world to act against apartheid.
This was done out of solidarity, not obligation.
Today, it is painful to see fellow Africans and other foreigners facing hostility and violence within South Africa. While challenges like unemployment and inequality are real, turning against others, especially those who once stood with you goes against the spirit that helped win your freedom.
Remember that your struggle was Africa’s struggle. The same unity that supported South Africa then can help strengthen it now.
We are not strangers. We are connected by history.
With respect,
A fellow African