Julius Malema says he’d rather visit Nigeria for jollof rice and pepper soup than worry about American entry restrictions
South African political leader Julius Malema has stirred conversations online after sharing his bold perspective on international travel and African self-reliance.
I’ll go to Nigeria where they’ll feed me jollof rice and pepper soup
In a recent statement, Malema joked that even if the United States denied him entry, he would happily visit neighbouring Zimbabwe, Botswana, or Nigeria instead.
“Why should I be concerned about people who are going to feed me burgers and make me fat? I’ll enter Nigeria where they’ll feed me jollof rice and pepper soup ,” he said, highlighting his preference for local culture and cuisine over Western influence.
The post quickly went viral, with netizens praising his confident stance and humorous take on diplomacy.
Many viewers interpreted Malema’s words as a call for Africans to embrace their own resources and cultural pride rather than seeking approval or validation from Western nations.
Social media reactions
@lionhead_king: “This is the mentality all Africans need to share. Stop kissing up to bad deals. The world cannot progress without the resources in Africa, why always act like beggars!?!”
@chrismiles78: “Good rhetoric. But let’s deal with xenophobia and then move on to all the economic, political and tribal barriers that are preventing sub-Saharan Africa from transforming into a dependable economic powerhouse.”
@U_y_a_i: “He said what needed to be said! Jollof rice and Pepper Soup are a better diplomatic strategy than any political meeting. No lies detected.”
@QueenJ_001: “Forget visa, give am jollof and pepper soup and e go dey alright”
Malema’s statement has reignited debates on Africa’s self-worth, resource control, and the importance of cultural pride in international relations.
Watch the video below…
"Even if America decides that i should no longer enter America, its okay i will enter Zimbabwe, i will enter Botswana, i will enter Nigeria, i will enter Africa, My home. Why should i be concerned about people who are going to feed me burgers, and make me Fat" ~ Julius Malema pic.twitter.com/vWK4MWgby0
— Global Folder (@Global_Folder) December 11, 2025
