Again Nigeria Urges South Africa to End Xenophobic Attacks on Nigerians.

Nigeria has urged South Africa to take urgent and concrete measures to end recurring xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals, warning that the violence threatens the longstanding relationship between the continent’s two largest economies.

The call was made by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, during a meeting with South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, held to address growing concerns over attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa.

The minister said Nigeria remained deeply concerned about the repeated attacks, noting that incidents of xenophobic violence had occurred over several years and continued to endanger the lives and property of Nigerians residing in the country.

She stressed that while every sovereign nation has the right to enforce its immigration laws, such laws must be implemented in accordance with the rule of law, due process and internationally recognised human rights standards.

According to the minister, individuals suspected of committing crimes should be arrested, prosecuted and punished through legal procedures rather than becoming victims of mob violence or extrajudicial attacks.

She also expressed concern over reports that some Nigerians with valid residence permits had been attacked despite residing legally in South Africa, describing the development as unacceptable.

The minister further raised concerns over reports of security agencies allegedly failing to intervene in some attacks, saying such incidents raised questions about the responsibility of state authorities to protect both citizens and foreign nationals.

The Minister urged the South African government to take decisive action to restore confidence, strengthen public safety and prevent further violence against Nigerians and other African migrants.

She recalled Nigeria’s historical support for South Africa during the struggle against apartheid and said both countries had maintained close diplomatic ties through the African Union and other continental initiatives.

According to her, preserving that longstanding relationship requires both nations to work together in tackling xenophobia while promoting peaceful coexistence and respect for human rights.

Responding, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, reaffirmed his country’s opposition to xenophobia and intolerance.

Lamola said the South African government remained committed to protecting everyone living within its borders while continuing efforts to address illegal immigration and criminal activities through lawful means.

He added that the administration of President Cyril Ramaphosa would continue working with Nigerian authorities to strengthen bilateral relations and address issues affecting citizens of both countries.

The renewed diplomatic engagement comes amid growing concerns over recent attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, with Nigeria calling for stronger protection for its citizens and sustained cooperation between both governments.