Dr Bobby Moroe, the South African Consul-General in Lagos, has called on Nigerians to consider South Africa as their preferred tourist destination. He made the call during the South Africa Week celebration held in Lagos, which marked South Africa’s 29th anniversary of democratic rule and bilateral and diplomatic relations with Nigeria. Dr Moroe highlighted that South Africa offers various opportunities for business, conferencing, tourism, education, and leisure.
“We are celebrating the diplomatic relations between Nigeria and South Africa, and we are also celebrating 29 years of democracy in South Africa,” said Dr Moroe. “We have chosen to celebrate in Nigeria to appreciate the role Nigeria has played in the struggle for South Africans’ liberation. South Africa will never forget the role Nigeria has played in its liberation agenda, so this is how we show our appreciation.”
Dr Moroe emphasized that this is the beginning of a new journey in the renewal of friendship between South Africa and Nigeria, and urged Nigerians to visit South Africa for conferencing, studies, business, and leisure. “South Africa is open for tourism,” he added.
Thekiso Rakolojane, Regional Head of South Africa Tourism (SAT), also expressed excitement about being part of the celebration of South Africa Week. “We have been here since 2015, and we appreciate the relationship so far,” said Rakolojane. “We seize this opportunity to welcome tourists to South Africa to explore the abundance of beaches, wildlife, and more.”
At the event, South Africans and Nigerians in attendance spoke about their attractions to each other’s cultures. Musa Nzuza, a South African who works in industrial catering, expressed his admiration for Nigerian food and their respectful nature, saying that Nigeria feels like his second home. Herman Franken, who works with South Africa International Breweries, described Nigerians as more friendly and approachable compared to other African countries where he has worked. Lynette Mitchell, Financial Manager with SON International, described Nigerians as welcoming, hospitable, and the best people in Africa.
A Nigerian model, Mr Kenneth Joseph, also praised South Africans as loving individuals who are passionate about their culture, and encouraged Nigerians to take pride in their own culture and improve on exhibiting it.
Delegates at the event were treated to scintillating Zulu dance performances, adding to the festive atmosphere of the South Africa Week celebration in Lagos.
