Key points
- Nigeria has urged South Africa to take decisive action against attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals.
- The Federal Government says 98 Nigerians have been killed in mob and hate-related violence since 2022.
- South Africa says it rejects xenophobia and remains committed to protecting everyone within its borders.
- Both countries pledged to strengthen cooperation while addressing migration and security concerns.
Main story
The Federal Government has called on South Africa to take decisive action against recurring attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals, insisting that those responsible must be brought to justice.
Nigeria also stressed that foreign residents are entitled to equal protection under international law, regardless of where they live, and urged stronger measures to prevent xenophobic violence.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Sola Enikanolaiye, made the call during a meeting in Abuja with South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, who visited Nigeria as Special Envoy of President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Lamola delivered a message from President Ramaphosa to President Bola Tinubu reaffirming the longstanding ties between both countries and acknowledging Nigeria’s support during South Africa’s struggle against apartheid.
Speaking during the meeting, Enikanolaiye recalled Nigeria’s contributions to the anti-apartheid movement and its role in the establishment of the African Union and the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD).
He, however, expressed concern over repeated attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, disclosing that 98 Nigerians have been killed in mob and hate-related violence since 2022.
“Nigerians have continued to be among the principal victims of what we describe as Afrophobia. We will never support drug trafficking or any criminal conduct.
“However, anyone accused of committing an offence must be prosecuted in accordance with South Africa’s Constitution, the rule of law and international human rights obligations,” he said.
The minister said the inability of authorities to adequately protect foreign nationals raises serious concerns about public safety and the state’s responsibility to uphold justice.
He warned that continued attacks on African nationals could undermine the strategic partnership between Nigeria and South Africa.
Responding, Lamola reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to its relationship with Nigeria, describing the visit as an opportunity to strengthen a historic partnership forged during the liberation struggle.
He thanked Nigeria for its unwavering support in the fight against apartheid and said South Africans remained grateful for the sacrifices made by Nigeria.
According to Lamola, the South African government rejects xenophobia and all forms of discrimination against people living in the country.
“President Ramaphosa has consistently spoken against xenophobia, racism, homophobia, violence and all forms of intolerance directed at anyone living within South Africa,” he said.
Lamola added that South Africa would continue enforcing its immigration laws and tackling crimes such as drug trafficking and cybercrime while respecting the rule of law.
He also called for greater cooperation among African countries to promote safe, orderly and regular migration in line with African Union protocols.
The issues
Repeated attacks on foreign nationals have remained a recurring source of diplomatic tension between Nigeria and South Africa. While both countries maintain strong political and economic ties, concerns over the safety of migrants continue to test the relationship and highlight the need for stronger law enforcement and regional cooperation.
What’s being said
“Anyone accused of committing an offence must be prosecuted in accordance with South Africa’s Constitution, the rule of law and international human rights obligations.” — Amb. Sola Enikanolaiye, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
What’s next
Nigeria and South Africa are expected to continue diplomatic engagements on migration, security and the protection of citizens while working to strengthen bilateral relations.
Bottom line
Nigeria is pressing South Africa to match its condemnation of xenophobia with stronger action to protect foreign nationals and hold perpetrators of violence accountable.
