19/04/2025
Nigeria played a significant role in supporting the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa through various means. While the exact amount of financial contribution is difficult to quantify, here are some key ways Nigeria contributed ΒΉ:
- *Nationalization of foreign banks*: Nigeria nationalized the local operations of Barclays Bank and British Petroleum (BP) for doing business with the apartheid regime in South Africa. BP was penalized for supplying oil to South Africa, while Barclays Bank was advised not to buy South African government bonds.
- *Boycotts and diplomatic efforts*: Nigeria led a boycott of the 1978 Games in protest of New Zealand's sporting contacts with apartheid South Africa. Nigeria also mobilized 32 nations from Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean to boycott the 1986 Commonwealth Games due to the Thatcher government's attitude towards South Africa.
- *Military training and support*: Nigeria provided secret military training to African National Congress (ANC) guerrilla forces at the Kaduna first mechanized army division and offered material, financial, and diplomatic support.
- *Financial support*: Although the exact amount is unknown, Nigeria is believed to have spent millions of dollars supporting the ANC during the struggle to liberate South Africa.
These actions demonstrate Nigeria's commitment to fighting apartheid and supporting the liberation of South Africa.