Larry Madowo Nigeria Visa Criticism: Kenyan Journalist Says “Giant of Africa, You Dey Fall My Hand”
Award-winning Kenyan journalist Larry Madowo has publicly criticized Nigeria over what he described as expensive and restrictive visa requirements for African travelers.
Madowo, who currently works as an international correspondent for CNN, made the comment on social media while reacting to reports about the cost of obtaining a Nigerian visa. In his post, the journalist used a popular Nigerian expression, saying, “Giant of Africa, you dey fall my hand,” a phrase commonly used to express disappointment.
Nigeria is often referred to as the “Giant of Africa” because of its large population, economic influence, and cultural impact across the continent. However, Madowo suggested that the country’s visa policies contradict its leadership role in Africa.
According to him, the high cost and complicated process involved in securing a Nigerian visa discourages travel and undermines efforts to promote stronger connections among African countries.
His remarks quickly sparked discussions across social media platforms, with many Africans sharing their experiences about visa challenges within the continent. Some users supported his criticism, arguing that African countries should make it easier for fellow Africans to travel and do business across borders.
Others, however, defended Nigeria’s immigration policies, noting that visa fees and requirements are often influenced by diplomatic reciprocity and security considerations.
Travel restrictions within Africa have long been a topic of debate among policymakers and analysts. Despite growing calls for regional integration, Africans still face significant barriers when trying to travel within the continent compared with travelers from other regions.
Several African organizations, including the African Union, have advocated for more open visa policies to promote economic cooperation, tourism, and cultural exchange among African nations.
The African Union has previously launched initiatives aimed at encouraging visa-free travel across the continent. However, progress has been uneven, with many countries still maintaining strict visa requirements.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, has been gradually introducing reforms aimed at simplifying travel procedures. In recent years, the Nigerian government introduced a visa-on-arrival system for certain categories of travelers in an effort to encourage business and tourism.
Nevertheless, critics argue that the overall visa process remains complicated and expensive for many visitors, especially those coming from other African countries.
Madowo’s comments have therefore reignited a broader conversation about whether African nations are doing enough to remove travel barriers among themselves.
Some analysts say that easier travel within Africa could boost trade, strengthen diplomatic relationships, and create more opportunities for cultural exchange.
Supporters of open travel policies often point to regions like Europe, where the Schengen system allows citizens of many countries to move freely across borders. They argue that Africa could benefit from a similar approach if governments are willing to cooperate.
Despite the criticism, Nigerian officials have not directly responded to Madowo’s remarks. However, the conversation highlights the growing pressure on African governments to reconsider policies that make intra-African travel difficult.
As discussions continue online, the issue has once again drawn attention to the wider challenge of achieving true regional integration across Africa.
For now, Madowo’s comment has added a strong voice to the debate, prompting many Africans to reflect on whether the continent’s borders are helping or hindering its collective progress.
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