Nigeria Calls for Urgent Dialogue with South Africa Amid Xenophobic Tensions
The Nigerian government has summoned the acting High Commissioner of South Africa in response to reports of escalating attacks on Nigerians and their businesses. This action comes amid rising fears of a new wave of xenophobic movements gaining traction in South Africa.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the special envoy is set to arrive at its Abuja headquarters on May 4, 2026. During this meeting, Nigerian officials will voice their serious concerns regarding recent incidents that jeopardize the diplomatic and economic relations that have long existed between the two nations.
The discussions will focus on recent protests led by South African groups that have reportedly morphed into violence, harassment, and the destruction of foreign-owned businesses, many of which are operated by Nigerians. This surge in hostility has provoked significant outrage among Nigerians, raising alarms about the safety of the thousands of their compatriots residing and working in South Africa.
Spokesperson for the Ministry, Kimyebi Ebienfa, expressed profound concern over the implications of such insecurity on bilateral relations. He emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad while actively seeking a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing crisis.
Despite the heightened tensions, the Federal Government has urged Nigerians to maintain their composure, assuring them that high-level diplomatic measures are being taken to address the situation. The aim is to ensure the safety and dignity of Nigerian nationals in South Africa.
The relationship between Nigeria and South Africa is pivotal within Africa, characterized by a shared history of support dating back to Nigeria’s backing of the anti-apartheid movement. However, this relationship has faced recurrent strains due to previous incidents of xenophobic violence.
Past crises, particularly those in 2008, 2015, and 2019, resulted in significant violence against foreign nationals, including Nigerians, leading to loss of life, looting, and widespread property destruction. Notably, the events of 2019 led to serious diplomatic fallout, with Nigeria recalling its high commissioner and boycotting the Africa World Economic Forum in protest against the violence.
In light of previous tensions, Nigeria and South Africa established mechanisms such as early warning systems and joint consular forums aimed at preventing further violence and ensuring the protection of their citizens. However, intermittent tensions and anti-immigrant sentiments persist, often ignited by local grievances related to unemployment and crime.
Experts have cautioned that if the current situation is not swiftly addressed, it could once again strain diplomatic relations between Africa’s two largest economies and hinder regional integration efforts within frameworks such as the African Union (AU) and the African Continental Free Trade Area. The outcomes of the upcoming talks are anticipated to be critical in determining the trajectory of relations between both nations, underscoring the importance of mutual respect, cooperation, and the protection of their peoples.
