Nigeria's imports from South Africa rise despite xenophobic tensions
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Nigeria's imports from South Africa increased by 23.83 percent to N155.26bn in the first quarter of 2026, even as diplomatic tensions escalated due to xenophobic attacks on Nigerians. This figure is up from N125.38bn in the same period of 2025. The increase in trade occurred amidst worsening relations between Abuja and Pretoria, which led the Federal Government to evacuate affected citizens and consider diplomatic measures. South Africa remained a major import source for Nigeria, with total imports reaching N535.29bn in 2025. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, expressed dissatisfaction with South Africa's response to the attacks, stating that the Federal Government was considering retaliatory diplomatic measures. However, business stakeholders, including the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, cautioned against actions that could harm economic ties, emphasizing that extreme responses could undermine investor confidence and bilateral relations. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced measures to address irregular migration but urged citizens not to take law enforcement into their own hands. The rising trade figures indicate that economic relations have remained resilient despite recurring diplomatic disputes.
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A suspect has been arrested and confessed to stealing cash from several Super Falcons players at the Marriott Hotel in Casablanca, Morocco. The incident occurred days before Nigeria's opening match at the 2026 Women鈥檚 Africa Cup of Nations. Midfielder Esther Okoronkwo stated on social media that she, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Michelle Alozie, and captain Rasheedat Ajibade were among those from whom over $1,000 was stolen. Okoronkwo also accused hotel staff of disrespect and failing to address the matter properly. Following public complaints, Nigerian journalist Colin Udoh confirmed the arrest and confession, adding that full restitution would be made to the players. The Super Falcons, who had been training in Mohammedia before moving to Rabat, are now focused on their tournament campaign, set to begin against Malawi on Tuesday.
The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation has selected Ogun State as a key Nigerian state to lead the country's transition to a circular economy. This recognition is based on Ogun's environmental sustainability initiatives and climate change programs. Ogun is now part of Project 220145 Component 2, which aims to advance Nigeria's green and just transition to net-zero emissions through circular economy efforts. The Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, stated that this recognition validates the state's environmental policies and adds to its achievements in climate change programs and circular economy projects. Ogun State's environmental interventions include distributing biomass smokeless stoves to over 3,000 residents, deploying electric motorcycles and compressed natural gas buses, and implementing the Blue Box waste segregation scheme, Plastic for Cash recycling program, community recycling projects, cement industry decarbonisation initiatives, and senatorial material recovery centers. These initiatives aim to promote resource recovery, reduce pollution, and create green jobs. Emem Umana, National Field Coordinator of the UNIDO Nigeria Office, commended Ogun State for its commitment and urged it to continue its environmental and socio-economic reforms, highlighting its international recognition and role as a model for other states pursuing green development.
Nigeria's Flying Eagles will start their WAFU B U-20 Championship title defense against Ghana today, Monday, in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast. This match is a repeat of the last edition's final, where Nigeria defeated the Black Satellites 2-1 in Lom茅, Togo, to retain the title they first won in 2022. New head coach Abdu Maikaba aims for a winning start, stating, "We are going for an outright victory against Ghana because our objective is to retain the trophy and we have to start winning our matches from Day One." The game is scheduled for 2 p.m. local time 3 p.m. Nigeria time at the Lyc茅e Scientifique de Yamoussoukro. Nigeria recently secured a 2-1 friendly victory against Athl茅tique Club de Zenuola. A win against Ghana would significantly boost the seven-time African champions' chances of qualifying for the semi-finals. Nigeria's subsequent Group B matches are against Togo on July 30 and Burkina Faso on August 2, both at 2 p.m. local time. Hosts Ivory Coast are in Group A with Benin Republic and Niger Republic.