Independent Africa’s Ferocious Stance Against Apartheid Colonialism
Sixty-five years ago, on 11 April 1961, Nigeria officially imposed a total trade boycott and strict economic sanctions on South Africa to oppose its apartheid regime. This historic action included cutting off trade relations, refusing to import goods, and restricting flights to combat the discriminatory policies of the time. Following rising opposition to apartheid, Nigeria took an early, firm stance in 1961 by banning South African products. Nigeria tightened these measures by restricting South African aircraft from using its airspace and banning imports, aiming to isolate the South African economy.
As the Chair of the United Nations Special Committee against Apartheid, Nigeria served and actively worked to create a worldwide movement against the regime. Beyond sanctions, Nigeria provided significant monetary aid – sometimes millions of dollars annually – to liberation movements like the African National Congress (ANC). Scholarships were also provided to South African students to study in Nigeria, fostering solidarity against the regime.
The Independent States of Africa, and other friends of South African freedom abroad, had in the past on many occasions shown their contempt for apartheid and their solidarity with the people of South Africa. These actions were in line with the third All-African People’s Conference, held in Cairo, on 25 – 31 March 1961, which appealed to all African States
