CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA — Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party leader Peter Obi arrived in Cape Town on Saturday, May 22, 2026, to participate in the Spier Dialogue 2026, an annual high-level forum focused on Africa’s governance, democracy, economic inclusion, urbanisation, migration, leadership, and youth empowerment.
In a statement, Obi expressed optimism about contributing to discussions on sustainable growth and development across the continent. He is expected to address participants on Sunday.
“Africa’s future should not be characterised by poverty amid abundance or by division instead of development,” Obi said. “It is time for us to transition from consumption to production, from divisive politics to politics built on competence and compassion, and from mere promises to tangible progress that serves everyday citizens.”
Shortly after his arrival, Obi held a two-hour meeting with members of the Nigerian community in Cape Town. Discussions reportedly centred on the challenges faced by African expatriates in South Africa, particularly amid concerns over xenophobic incidents and social tensions.
On Sunday morning, Obi held separate meetings with three senior South African government officials and political leaders to discuss migration, regional cooperation, and peaceful coexistence:
- Leon Schreiber, Minister of Home Affairs (Democratic Alliance);
- Velenkosini Hlabisa, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Inkatha Freedom Party);
- Gayton McKenzie, Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture (Patriotic Alliance).
Obi described the conversations as “productive and candid,” highlighting shared concerns including migration, economic pressures, youth unemployment, security, and tensions affecting African migrants in South Africa.
“Nigeria and South Africa, as two of Africa’s most important nations, must enhance dialogue, strengthen cooperation, and work towards solutions based on justice, mutual respect, and the rule of law,” he stated.
He also called for responsible leadership, compassion, restraint, and adherence to democratic processes and the rule of law.
Obi’s engagement with Nigerians in South Africa has prompted reactions on social media, with some commentators drawing comparisons to the federal government’s handling of recent security incidents in Nigeria.
Last week, armed attackers reportedly targeted schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting dozens of pupils and teachers. Local reports indicated that one teacher, identified as Michael Oyedokun, was killed during the incident.
Some critics have questioned the federal government’s response to the attack, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had not publicly visited the affected community as of the time of reporting.
Separately, discussions have emerged online regarding Nigeria’s response to Nigerians affected by tensions in South Africa, following reports that evacuation support may require individuals to cover transportation costs themselves. However, no formal large-scale evacuation policy had been officially announced at the time of filing this report.
Obi reiterated his vision for a “New Nigeria” and a “New Africa” grounded in integrity, service, quality education, youth empowerment, and people-centred governance.
“The progress of Africa hinges on our ability to create unity, foster economic inclusivity, invest in our communities, and uphold the dignity of every African, no matter where they live.”
The Spier Dialogue 2026 continues with participation from African leaders, policymakers, academics, and civil society stakeholders across the continent.
