In a viral video circulating on social media on Monday, an unnamed Nigerian resident of Guangzhou voiced his concerns over repeated incidents of street fights, cult-related violence, and general disorderly behaviour allegedly involving Nigerians in the area.
“Fellow Nigerians, what is happening on the streets of Guangzhou is very appalling,” he said in the video. “We must speak the truth. Every action has consequences, and we are the ones destroying our own image.”
The speaker, who appeared to be addressing the Nigerian community in the Chinese city, lamented that while opportunities to live and work abroad exist, some Nigerians are misusing them through “reckless and embarrassing behaviour.”
“You bought a ticket, you got a visa, and all you’re doing in China is fighting and causing a nuisance,” he said. “Who are you?”
He cited past instances where individuals involved in violent acts were deported and warned that similar behaviour could again prompt stern action from Chinese authorities, potentially in coordination with Nigerian officials.
“I know four guys who fought in this place. Today, they are no longer in China—they’ve been sent back. Some of you remember when Blord visited and there was a fight. We all know how that ended,” he recounted.
He further cautioned that the Nigerian community as a whole could suffer if individuals continue to misbehave. “Do you know that Nigerian authorities can write China to say they don’t want you here anymore? And that letter must be honoured.”
The speakerencouraged fellow Nigerians to focus on self-development and legal enterprises. “Every business idea you see today started with an individual. Why not build your life instead of wasting your time on street fights and cultism?”
He added, “There are other foreigners here—Arabs, Japanese, Americans. You don’t see them fighting on the streets like we do.”
In closing, he called for self-discipline and a commitment to being worthy ambassadors of Nigeria. “You represent your family and your country. Cultism won’t get you far—ask those who did it before, where are they now?”
The video drew widespread reaction across social media, with many Nigerians applauding the message.
On X.com, user @forwardever commented, “People go uptown to fight and do cultism. Instead of finding money and hustling, they’re busy causing trouble.”
Another user, @leowatts08, lamented, “They just use their bad character to ruin it for those focused on legal hustle.”
Instagram user @faith.ironsi wrote, “Love this! When you go abroad, focus on your hustle. No time to waste.”
Another, @amara, added, “Use your time wisely. So many people dream of this opportunity.”
One user simply called it a “clarion call to better the image of our beloved country.”
Past data lends credence to the speaker’s concerns. As of 2017, no fewer than 535 Nigerians were reported to be in Chinese prisons, most serving time for drug-related offences. In Guangzhou alone, two out of every 200 Nigerian visitors had reportedly faced arrest for similar crimes.
As the Nigerian diaspora continues to grow, calls for responsible behaviour and self-restraint may prove critical in shaping international perceptions and protecting opportunities for future migrants.
