
Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, the late wife of former South African President Nelson Mandela, has reiterated Nigeria’s contribution to South Africa’s liberation from apartheid, amid renewed public debate on migration and social unrest in the country.
Reflecting on South Africa’s liberation history, Winnie Mandela praised Nigeria for its solidarity during the anti-apartheid struggle.
“We owe much of our freedom in South Africa to Nigeria. On behalf of South Africa, thank you, Nigeria.”
Nigeria was among the African countries that strongly opposed apartheid, offering diplomatic support and backing international efforts that contributed to ending the system of racial segregation.
Her comments come against the backdrop of ongoing tensions in South Africa linked to the activities of the so-called “March and March Movement,” a group reportedly involved in the forceful and illegal checking of immigrants’ documents and calls for some African migrants to leave the country.
The situation has sparked wider discussions on migration, law enforcement, and community relations within affected areas.
The development has renewed attention on historical ties between Nigeria and South Africa, as well as current debates surrounding immigration and social cohesion in parts of the country.