Nigeria has intensified diplomatic pressure on South Africa following renewed anti-foreigner protests, calling for stronger protections for its citizens and the swift implementation of a bilateral mechanism to prevent escalating tensions.
The move comes after Nigeria summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, where officials expressed concern over demonstrations in parts of South Africa demanding the expulsion of foreign nationals.
Addressing journalists, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa said the Federal Government was disturbed by circulating videos and reports, warning that such developments could strain relations between both countries.
“Nigeria is monitoring the situation closely through our missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg. The images and rhetoric are disturbing and do not reflect the longstanding relationship between our two countries,” he said.
Ebienfa also disclosed that Nigeria raised concerns over the deaths of two nationals in April in separate incidents allegedly involving security personnel. One reportedly died in detention, while another succumbed to injuries following an assault.
“These are matters of serious concern because they directly affect the safety and confidence of our citizens abroad,” he added.
Nigeria has demanded thorough investigations into both cases and requested regular diplomatic updates from South African authorities.
Central to Abuja’s diplomatic engagement is the activation of a newly agreed early warning framework designed to facilitate rapid communication and coordinated responses to emerging social or security tensions.
“Rather than waiting for situations to deteriorate, this framework allows both governments to engage early, share intelligence, and manage issues before they escalate,” Ebienfa explained.
He stressed that Nigeria expects concrete actions beyond official assurances, including accountability and preventive measures to curb further incidents.
The government also raised alarm over hostile messaging and mobilisation by groups accused of promoting anti-foreigner sentiments, urging South African authorities to address inflammatory rhetoric that could incite violence.
In response, the Acting High Commissioner assured that South Africa opposes unlawful attacks or intimidation against foreign nationals and would convey Nigeria’s concerns to authorities in Pretoria.
Meanwhile, anxiety is growing within Nigeria’s diaspora community, with more than 100 nationals reportedly indicating willingness to return home voluntarily if conditions worsen.
Ebienfa said the government is reviewing the situation and considering options for affected citizens, while maintaining ongoing diplomatic engagement.
Although he declined to specify possible retaliatory measures, he noted that Nigeria retains a range of diplomatic options should tensions escalate.
The latest developments revive concerns over recurring anti-immigrant unrest in South Africa, which has periodically strained relations with Nigeria and other African countries.
Officials say Nigeria’s immediate priority remains the safety of its citizens and the preservation of stable relations between two of Africa’s leading nations, with the success of the early warning framework seen as key to preventing future crises.
