By Boluwatife Oshadiya | July 28, 2026
Key Points
- Nigeria has urged South Africa to prosecute perpetrators of attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals
- The Federal Government says 98 Nigerians have been killed in mob and hate-related violence since 2022
- South Africa reaffirmed its opposition to xenophobia and pledged to uphold the rule of law
Main Story
The Federal Government has called on South Africa to take decisive action against recurring attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals, warning that continued violence threatens the longstanding relationship between both countries.
The appeal was made on Monday in Abuja by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, during a meeting with South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, who visited Nigeria as Special Envoy of President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Enikanolaiye said Nigeria remained deeply concerned about the safety of its citizens in South Africa, disclosing that 98 Nigerians have been killed in mob and hate-related attacks since 2022.
He stressed that while Nigeria does not condone criminality, every accused person deserves a fair trial under the law.
“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,” said Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The minister warned that the inability of host authorities to adequately protect foreign nationals undermines public confidence, weakens bilateral ties and contradicts the principles of the African Union (AU), which both countries helped shape.
Lamola, who delivered a message from President Ramaphosa to President Bola Tinubu, reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to combating xenophobia while strengthening cooperation with Nigeria on migration, security and regional integration.
What’s Being Said
“President Ramaphosa has consistently spoken against xenophobia, racism, homophobia, violence and all forms of intolerance directed at anyone living within South Africa,” said Ronald Lamola, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation.
Lamola added that South Africa would continue enforcing its immigration laws while respecting constitutional rights and international human rights obligations.
What’s Next
- Nigeria and South Africa are expected to deepen diplomatic engagement through existing bilateral mechanisms.
- Both countries are likely to strengthen cooperation on migration management, security and the protection of foreign nationals.
- Discussions under African Union frameworks on safe and orderly migration are expected to continue.
The Bottom Line: Nigeria’s renewed demand underscores growing concern over persistent attacks on its citizens abroad. How South Africa responds will be closely watched, not only for the safety of foreign nationals but also for the future of one of Africa’s most strategic diplomatic relationships.
