By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria
The Federal Government has summoned South Africa’s acting High Commissioner in Abuja following renewed xenophobic protests and reported attacks on Nigerian citizens and their businesses.
The move comes amid growing concerns over escalating tensions in parts of South Africa, where foreign nationals have reportedly faced harassment, violence, and threats.
The development was contained in a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa.
According to the statement, the meeting with the South African envoy is scheduled for Monday, May 4, 2026, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
“The objective of this engagement is to formally convey the Nigerian Government’s profound concern regarding recent events that have the potential to impact the established cordial relations between Nigeria and South Africa,” the statement read.
The ministry said discussions would focus on ongoing demonstrations by various groups in South Africa and documented cases involving Nigerian nationals.
“Discussions will primarily focus on the ongoing demonstrations… and the documented instances of mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and attacks on their businesses,” it added.
Reports indicate that the protests, which have intensified in cities including Pretoria, have targeted migrants, with some incidents involving attempts to remove children of foreign nationals from schools.
The unrest has reportedly led to fatalities, including Nigerian victims, sparking outrage within the diaspora and calls for urgent government intervention.
While acknowledging rising public concern, the Federal Government urged Nigerians to remain calm, assuring that efforts are underway to safeguard citizens abroad.
“The ministry… implores the Nigerian public to remain calm and reiterates the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of Nigerian citizens residing in South Africa,” the statement noted.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has, however, called for adherence to local laws by foreign nationals while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to human rights.
The latest development signals a potential strain in diplomatic relations between both countries, which have historically mainta
ined strong bilateral ties.
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