The Federal Government has begun efforts to evacuate Nigerians from South Africa following renewed xenophobic protests and increasing concerns over the safety of citizens living in affected communities. The move follows reports of harassment, intimidation, and attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of the country.
South Africa has experienced repeated outbreaks of xenophobic violence over the years, with foreign nationals frequently targeted during periods of economic and social tension. Nigerians have often been among those affected alongside migrants from other African countries.
Previous incidents in 2008, 2015, and 2019 triggered diplomatic engagements between Nigeria and South Africa, leading to calls for stronger protection of African migrants and improved regional cooperation on migration issues. Recent protests in parts of South Africa renewed fears among Nigerians residing in the country, prompting intervention by Nigerian diplomatic missions and federal authorities.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, confirmed that the Federal Government had activated arrangements to evacuate Nigerians from South Africa through voluntary repatriation measures coordinated by Nigerian missions. She disclosed that discussions had already taken place with South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, regarding the safety of Nigerians affected by the protests.
According to the minister, the government could not “stand by and watch the systematic harassment and humiliation” of Nigerians in South Africa. She also referenced alleged extra-judicial killings involving Nigerian citizens. The minister stated that Nigerians living in affected areas had been advised to remain indoors and temporarily close businesses where necessary due to security risks.
President Bola Tinubu was also said to have directed Nigerian diplomatic missions to establish crisis response channels and support mechanisms as authorities move to evacuate Nigerians from South Africa under the emergency arrangement.
Government officials confirmed that more than 130 Nigerians had already indicated interest in voluntary evacuation, with coordination ongoing between affected citizens and consular officials. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs further stated that diplomatic engagement with South African authorities would continue alongside efforts involving regional and international institutions.
The decision to evacuate Nigerians from South Africa highlights rising diplomatic concern over the safety of Nigerians abroad and the broader impact of xenophobic violence on African regional relations.
The development may also affect bilateral engagement between Nigeria and South Africa in areas such as trade, migration, and citizen protection. It further raises concerns about regional stability and the treatment of migrants within African states. Security and foreign policy analysts have stressed the importance of diplomatic engagement and coordinated regional responses to prevent escalation.
