Veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has strongly condemned the growing wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, calling on African leaders and citizens to embrace unity, tolerance, and brotherhood across the continent.
The celebrated actor made the passionate appeal during his acceptance speech at the 2026 edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards held in Lagos on Saturday night. Kanayo, who received the prestigious Industry Merit Award for his decades-long contribution to African cinema, used the global entertainment platform to address what he described as a disturbing trend threatening African unity.
Speaking before an audience filled with actors, filmmakers, producers, entertainers, and dignitaries from different African countries, the Nollywood icon expressed sadness over reports of attacks targeted at foreign Africans residing in South Africa, particularly Nigerians and other migrants seeking better opportunities.
According to him, Africans must stop treating one another as enemies, stressing that the continent can only achieve meaningful development through cooperation and mutual respect among its people.
Kanayo noted that entertainment has remained one of the strongest forces promoting African culture and integration across borders. He explained that films, music, and creative arts have continued to unite millions of people despite differences in language, ethnicity, and nationality.
The actor stated that it was painful to see fellow Africans subjected to violence and discrimination on African soil, especially at a time when the continent should be focusing on economic growth, youth empowerment, and stronger regional partnerships.
He urged governments across Africa to take deliberate steps toward protecting migrants and ensuring that no African is made to feel unsafe in another African country.
His comments drew loud applause from guests at the award ceremony, while clips from the speech quickly spread across social media platforms where many Nigerians and Africans praised him for speaking boldly on a sensitive issue affecting the continent.
Kanayo also used the moment to reflect on the journey of Nollywood and the sacrifices made by pioneers who contributed to building the industry into a globally recognised entertainment powerhouse.
The veteran actor emotionally recalled how many early practitioners in the Nigerian movie industry worked under difficult conditions without financial security, international recognition, or proper support systems.
He said several legends of the industry dedicated their lives to entertaining Africans but sadly passed away without enjoying the rewards of their labour. According to him, many others are still struggling with health and financial challenges despite decades of service to the entertainment sector.
Kanayo explained that receiving the Industry Merit Award was not just a personal achievement but a tribute to every actor, director, producer, scriptwriter, and crew member who played a role in shaping African cinema over the years.
The actor further praised Canal+ and the organisers of the AMVCA for continuing to invest in African storytelling and providing platforms that celebrate African creativity on the global stage.
He maintained that African stories deserve international attention because they reflect the realities, traditions, struggles, and aspirations of the people of the continent.
The issue of xenophobic violence in South Africa has remained a major concern for years, with several incidents involving attacks on foreign nationals periodically sparking diplomatic tensions and outrage across Africa.
In recent weeks, fresh reports of hostility against immigrants reignited conversations around safety, migration, and pan-African unity. Human rights organisations and advocacy groups have repeatedly called on authorities to strengthen protection for foreign nationals and prosecute perpetrators of violence.
Many analysts believe public figures speaking against xenophobia can help promote awareness and encourage peaceful coexistence among Africans.
Kanayo’s speech has since been described by fans and commentators as one of the most powerful moments of the night, shifting attention beyond glamour and entertainment to a critical social issue affecting millions of Africans.
The 2026 AMVCA ceremony itself was filled with glamour, fashion, music, and celebration as stars from across the continent gathered to honour excellence in film and television.
Kanayo shared the Industry Merit recognition with veteran actress Sola Sobowale, another respected figure in Nollywood whose career has inspired generations of actors and filmmakers.
Widely respected for his commanding performances and outspoken personality, Kanayo O. Kanayo remains one of the most influential voices in the Nigerian entertainment industry, with many fans applauding his decision to use a major international platform to advocate for peace, unity, and the protection of Africans everywhere.
