Allen Onyema, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, has called for Nigerians to implement a non-violent economic boycott of South Africa. This appeal comes in response to recurring xenophobic attacks targeting African migrants, including Nigerians, in the country.

Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Tuesday, Onyema urged Nigerians to stop investing in South Africa. He also encouraged South African businesses to invest in Nigeria, with terms of repatriation determined by the Nigerian government.

Onyema accused South African authorities of failing to adequately protect foreign nationals during periods of unrest. He questioned the apparent absence of police, military, and other security agencies during these incidents.

He highlighted that many Nigerian migrants contribute positively to the South African economy by establishing businesses and creating jobs. Onyema suggested that South Africans could learn entrepreneurial skills from these Nigerian residents.

While supporting Edo Senator Adams Oshiomhole's call for retaliation, Onyema firmly rejected violent actions against South Africans or businesses operating in Nigeria. He stated his opposition to shutting down South African-owned companies like MTN, noting that some Nigerians hold shares in these firms and they also employ Nigerian citizens.

Onyema's remarks coincide with renewed anti-foreigner protests in parts of South Africa. Demonstrators have demanded that undocumented migrants leave the country by June 30, prompting repatriation efforts by Nigeria and other affected nations.