Veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has spoken out against recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, urging Africans to stand together. He made the remarks on Saturday night in Lagos while receiving the Industry Merit Award at the 12th Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA). Kanayo expressed distress over violence targeting foreign nationals, stating, "I'm not happy about what is going on in South Africa today. Our voices must rise against the xenophobic attacks on every African." He added, "We are not happy about what is happening in South Africa, and everybody should lend his or her voice because we, as Africans, cannot be running from Africa."
At least two Nigerians and four Ethiopians have been killed in the recent wave of violence following South Africa's Freedom Day celebrations. Migrant-owned shops in Pretoria, Johannesburg and Cape Town were looted and set on fire. Videos on social media show foreign nationals being attacked and told to "fix their own countries." South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the attacks, though he cited illegal migration as a concern. Nigeria has summoned the South African Acting High Commissioner and begun voluntary evacuation for over 130 citizens.
Kanayo dedicated his AMVCA honour to unsung Nollywood actors and crew, recalling the industry's early struggles before 1992. He credited the award to those no longer in good health, retired to villages, or deceased. He also called on Canal+, parent company of MultiChoice, to sustain support for the awards, saying, "This is one thing that unites the whole of Africa."
Kanayo, known for his role in Living in Bondage, has featured in over 100 productions including Family Battle and Lionheart. He is also a trained lawyer, called to the Nigerian Bar in 2020, and holds the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
Kanayo O. Kanayo calls for African unity against xenophobia while accepting an award funded by a French multinational. He highlights the irony of a continent celebrating its cultural icons through a platform owned outside Africa. Nigerians are being evacuated from South Africa at the same time their entertainment industry relies on foreign corporate backing. The contradiction lies in demanding continental solidarity while key institutions remain under external control.
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