The Federal Government of Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu has summoned the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa in Abuja following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals, including Nigerians, in the country.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday, the envoy is expected to meet with Nigerian officials on Monday to address “documented instances of mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and attacks on their businesses.”
South Africa, widely regarded as Africa’s most industrialised economy, has long attracted migrants from across the continent. However, persistent economic challenges, including an unemployment rate exceeding 30 percent, have contributed to recurring outbreaks of anti-immigrant sentiment and violence.
The latest diplomatic move by Nigeria comes amid growing regional concern over the safety of foreign nationals in South Africa. Recently, Ghana also summoned South Africa’s acting high commissioner in Accra following reported xenophobic incidents involving its citizens.
Ghana’s Foreign Minister cited a case in KwaZulu-Natal Province where a Ghanaian legal resident was allegedly confronted and ordered to leave the country. Authorities in Ghana further warned of escalating tensions, advising their nationals to remain indoors for safety.
Data from South Africa’s statistics agency indicate that more than three million foreign nationals reside in the country, representing about 5.1 percent of the population. A significant proportion of these migrants originate from countries within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
In response to the recent violence, South Africa’s Acting Police Minister, Firoz Cachalia, condemned the attacks, describing them as unlawful and contrary to constitutional principles of dignity and equality. He assured that security agencies have been directed to act decisively against perpetrators.
“Acts of xenophobia, violence, looting, or intimidation will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” he stated.
The Nigerian government, however, reiterated its demand for the protection of its citizens and their businesses, stressing the importance of upholding international obligations and safeguarding human rights.
