At a recent conference in Abuja, a South African academic shared fond memories of his time studying in Nigeria during the 1980s. He spoke warmly about the Nigerian professors who taught him, the food, and the friendships he made. “Back then, it was a beautiful reality of African unity,” he reflected. Another attendee, 83-year-old Ademola Oyemade, echoed this sentiment, recalling how Nigeria was respected for aiding other African nations during the fight against apartheid. “We were known as the Giant of Africa,” he said, highlighting Nigeria’s prominent role in restoring peace through missions like ECOMOG.
In those days, Nigerians traveling abroad were generally welcomed, a stark contrast to the current climate. Today, many Nigerians face suspicion and discrimination internationally, particularly in countries like South Africa, where xenophobic sentiments are common. Reports indicate a surge in hostility against Nigerians, with numerous instances of mistreatment at airports. “The green passport makes us easy targets,” said Efemena Ochuko, a frequent traveler, pointing to the biases that seem to arise the moment immigration officials see it.
Public perceptions of Nigerians often stem from stereotypes about their lifestyle. Some foreigners believe Nigerians are loud and ostentatious, which clashes with their own cultural norms. Tubman Ochen from Uganda mentioned how Nigerians’ display of wealth can be off-putting. “You have money and flaunt it. We keep a low profile,” he said. This negative image complicates life for many law-abiding Nigerians abroad.
Crime also contributes to the stereotype, as an alarming number of Nigerians are incarcerated overseas. While a minority may engage in criminal behavior, many face unjust treatment due to the actions of a few. Samuel Onikoyi, an academic based in Brussels, pointed out that “bad news sells,” and hence, the media often emphasizes negative portrayals of Nigerians.
Adding to the struggle is Nigeria’s reputation at home, primarily driven by issues like corruption and poverty. Simon Odita, a Nigerian doctor in Canada, shared that global perceptions are shaped by the negative news that circulates daily. He urged for significant changes, noting that the current situation prevents many Nigerians from being accepted abroad.
Interestingly, despite these challenges, Nigerians are well-known for their substantial remittances, which were nearly $25 billion in 2019, making up 6% of Nigeria’s GDP. These funds significantly contribute to Nigeria’s economy, yet they also provoke resentment from some host countries, which seek to limit this flow of money.
To address these ongoing issues, the Nigerian government established the Nigerian in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) in 2017. This agency aims to engage Nigerians abroad and leverage their contributions to Nigeria’s development. However, criticisms abound about its efficacy in safeguarding Nigerian citizens’ rights and well-being abroad. Chijoke Umelahi, a lawyer in Abuja, criticized the commission for its lack of action in crucial situations compared to how quickly other nations respond to their citizens in distress.
The path forward centers on rebranding Nigeria’s image. Many believe the government needs to focus on sustainable development and better governance to rank higher internationally. Addressing fundamental issues like healthcare, education, and security can improve the narrative surrounding Nigerians abroad. “If life improves at home, fewer citizens will feel the need to leave,” Onikoyi concluded, emphasizing that a more prosperous Nigeria will uplift its citizens’ standing worldwide.
