George Benneth, a Nigerian entrepreneur from Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, returned to Nigeria in 2026 after living in South Africa for 21 years, leaving behind his wife, two sons, a guest house, and a vehicle repair and resale business due to rising xenophobic violence. He had moved to Johannesburg in 2005 seeking better opportunities and gradually built a stable life, operating St. George Guest House and earning income from buying and repairing accident-damaged cars for resale. Over time, increasing hostility toward foreign nationals escalated into direct threats, prompting Benneth to flee for his safety. He stated he personally faced danger and could no longer protect himself or his livelihood, forcing him to abandon his assets and return with only his life intact.
Benneth confirmed the loss of both his guest house and vehicle business, which had provided financial independence and stability. While his wife and children remain in South Africa, he hopes they may visit him in Nigeria, though he acknowledged his eldest son now makes his own decisions. Benneth expressed gratitude for surviving but described the emotional and economic toll of starting over in Nigeria. He appealed to the government, private organisations, and individuals for support in rebuilding his life. Despite the trauma, he maintained belief in the possibility of peaceful African coexistence but said any return to South Africa would depend on personal safety and secure working conditions. He urged Nigerians considering relocation abroad to aim not just for survival but for sustainable, dignified living.
A man who spent over two decades building businesses in South Africa now seeks help from the same Nigerian systems he left behind. His return raises the question of what support exists for citizens forced back by foreign threats despite long-term self-reliance abroad.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
