Nigeria urges South Africa to stop attacks on its citizens
The Federal Government has called on South Africa to take urgent action against xenophobic and Afrophobic violence targeting African nationals, especially Nigerians. Sola Enikanolaiye, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, emphasized the need for stronger migration governance and deeper people-to-people ties across Africa. He highlighted the historical relationship between Nigeria and South Africa, noting Nigeria’s significant support during the anti-apartheid struggle. The government expressed concern over the loss of Nigerian lives and called for concrete measures to prevent further violence.
What we know
- Sola Enikanolaiye urged South Africa to address attacks on African migrants, particularly Nigerians, during a virtual roundtable.
- The minister revealed that about 90 Nigerians have been killed in Afrophobic attacks since June 2022, with fresh incidents and displacement recorded in 2026.
- He stressed Nigeria’s major financial and diplomatic support for South Africa’s liberation, estimating contributions at over $60bn.
- The Federal Government called for transparent migration systems, warned against vigilantism, and urged responsible political rhetoric.
- Bola Tinubu’s commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad was reaffirmed, and Nigeria plans to raise the issue at the African Union Assembly.
