The National President of the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON), Otunba Frank Ogunojemite, has issued a stern warning regarding the negative impact of persistent xenophobic attacks and anti-immigration protests in South Africa. According to Ogunojemite, these recurring incidents of violence serve as a significant barrier to the successful implementation and long-term viability of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
He argues that the spirit of economic integration, which is fundamental to the agreement, cannot flourish in an environment characterized by hostility, discrimination, and the targeting of foreign nationals.
Speaking on the matter this past Saturday, Ogunojemite commended the Nigerian Federal Government for its proactive and swift efforts in evacuating citizens affected by the recent wave of unrest in South Africa. He characterized this intervention as a vital demonstration of the state’s responsibility to protect the welfare and security of its citizens, regardless of their location.
By taking decisive action, he noted, the government has helped restore confidence among Nigerians, reinforcing the belief that the nation remains committed to defending the interests and safety of its people when they are faced with crises abroad.
Despite his praise for the government’s rescue mission, Ogunojemite expressed deep concern over the broader implications of the violence for the continent. He emphasized that the AfCFTA was intentionally designed to foster a borderless African market, facilitate the free movement of goods and services, and encourage cross-border investment.
However, when traders, business owners, and legitimate migrants are subjected to intimidation and physical violence, the very foundation of this economic cooperation is shaken. He warned that such behavior contradicts the vision of a unified African trade bloc and is likely to deter investors from capitalizing on the emerging opportunities provided by the agreement.
Addressing the potential fallout of inaction, the APFFLON President urged African leaders, the African Union, and the AfCFTA secretariat to take a stronger stance. He argued that these entities must unequivocally condemn the violence and ensure that those responsible for the attacks are brought to justice.
He cautioned that handling such sensitive incidents with “kid gloves” or maintaining a posture of silence could inadvertently embolden perpetrators. Over time, a weak regional response could erode public and investor trust in the entire integration project, leaving the continent’s economic goals vulnerable to political instability.
In light of these external challenges, Ogunojemite shifted his focus to domestic policy, calling on the Federal Government to prioritize the strengthening of Nigeria’s internal economy. He asserted that a resilient and competitive national economy is Nigeria’s most effective defense against the pressures of regional instability.
To achieve this, he advocated for significant investments in critical infrastructure, including the provision of stable electricity, the modernization of ports, and the deliberate reduction of the costs associated with doing business. He believes that by fostering a more enabling environment for manufacturers, exporters, and logistics operators, Nigeria will be better positioned to harness the full potential of the AfCFTA.
Ultimately, Ogunojemite reaffirmed APFFLON’s commitment to championing policies that promote seamless trade and logistics development. He concluded by calling on African leaders across the continent to uphold the principles of unity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.
He stressed that these values are not merely social virtues but essential economic requirements for sustainable growth. Without a commitment to these foundational principles, the promise of a prosperous, integrated Africa remains at risk of being undermined by the very divisions the AfCFTA aims to overcome.
