The South African Consul-General to Nigeria, Prof. Bobby Moroe, has clarified the controversy surrounding the initial visa denial faced by Nigerian music star Ayra Starr, explaining that the setback was purely administrative and not targeted.
The issue resurfaced online amid heightened cultural tensions and calls from online commentators linking the event to broader bilateral friction. Social media flare-ups recently intensified after South African singer Tyla adjusted her tour stops, prompting some Nigerians to reference Ayra Starr’s previous travel hurdles.
Addressing the background of the incident, Prof. Moroe explained that the initial rejection happened in February 2024 when the artist’s team submitted an incorrect yellow fever documentation format.
”One of the challenges was that they did not submit an appropriate yellow fever certificate,” Prof. Moroe stated. “They submitted the yellow fever certificate of another country when they were supposed to submit the yellow fever certificate of their home country.”
The Consul-General emphasized that the matter was resolved amicably shortly after the discrepancy was identified. Following the correction, Ayra Starr and her entourage were successfully issued one-year travel visas to fulfill their performance obligations in South Africa later that year.
Dismissing claims that high-profile musicians receive preferential treatment or discriminatory blocks, the envoy stressed that standard immigration protocols apply universally.
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”If you meet the requirement for a visa, whether you are a star or not, tall, short, black or white, if you qualify, you will get it,” Prof. Moroe added. “But if you don’t, regardless of who you are, the immigration section will uphold the immigration law of the country.”