Migration and Nigeria – South Africa Relations

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume III, Issue VIII, August 2019 | ISSN 2454–6186

Migration and Nigeria – South Africa Relations

Big-Alabo, Tamunopubo
Dept of Political/Admin Studies, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Abstract: – This study examined the Migration and Nigeria-South Africa relations. The theory that was adopted was the neoclassical theory of migration by Arango and two questions was raised. The ex-post facto research design was used while data for this study was through secondary source such as textbooks, journal articles, newspapers, magazines and internet. The findings of the study showed that Nigeria and South Africa have relations which include Nigeria – South Africa NEPAD Initiative, South African Companies as Big Players in the Nigerian Economy and The South Africa – Nigeria Bi-National Commission. In a similar manner the findings also showed that there are some factors that Nigerians to migrate to south Africa which includes; poverty, overpopulation family reunification and asylum. .Based on the findings the study recommended among others that Nigeria should provide robust and unrestricted relations with South African outside the relations that they have (NEPAD Initiative, Bi-National Commission etc) to other aspect of businesses and Nigeria must also forge strategic business alliance in South Africa to balance the unhealthy business equation. Furthermore, beyond the existing skewed bilateral and economic relations in favor of South African businesses in Nigeria, there is an urgent need for both countries to initiate a liberalized migration regime and a robust migration management capacity towards enhancing and strengthening the strategic role of Nigerians in the diaspora as development partner.

Keywords: Migration, Nigeria-South Africa Relations and Foreign Policy.

I. INTRODUCTION

Africa is frequently depicted, in both contemporary and ancient accounts, as a continent of individuals moving (Bakewell, 2008). Great migrations figure in the myths of origins for some ethnic groups. For instance, the Bantu increase of movement from central Africa, the ‘Hamitic myth’ of migration from north to south, and even the Voortrekkers ‘Great Trek’ in South Africa (Bilger and Kraler, 2005). While a portion of these migrations might be minimal more than speculations and do not have any chronicled premise, they all serve a significant function in the (mythic) construction of Africa and its people in the advanced world. In Africa, migration represents a need for a few, and an open door for other people.

Read More