The Federal Government has invited the acting High Commissioner of South Africa to a meeting in Abuja following concerns about recent protests targeting foreign nationals and alleged attacks on Nigerian citizens and their businesses in the country.
According to a statement released on Saturday by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the meeting is slated for Monday at the ministry’s headquarters.
The ministry explained that the engagement is intended to address developments that could put a strain on diplomatic relations between the two countries, which have long maintained cordial ties.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has extended an invitation to the Acting High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa for a meeting scheduled to take place on Monday, May 4, 2026, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja,” the statement read.
It added, “The objective of this engagement is to formally convey the Nigerian Government’s profound concern regarding recent events that have the potential to impact the established cordial relations between Nigeria and South Africa.”
The ministry stated that deliberations at the meeting would focus on ongoing protests by groups in South Africa, as well as reported incidents involving Nigerian nationals.
“Discussions will primarily focus on the ongoing demonstrations by various groups within South Africa and the documented instances of mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and attacks on their businesses,” the statement read.
While recognising growing tensions among Nigerians over the situation, the Federal Government urged calm and reassured citizens of its commitment to their safety abroad.
“The ministry is aware of the growing discontent among Nigerians concerning the treatment of their nationals in South Africa.
“Nevertheless, it implores the Nigerian public to remain calm and reiterates the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of Nigerian citizens residing in South Africa,” it added.
Reports indicated that xenophobic protests have escalated in parts of South Africa, with incidents recorded in Pretoria and other cities where migrants have faced harassment, violence, and intimidation.
Some reports claimed that protesters targeted schools, attempting to block or remove children of foreign nationals from classrooms.
The unrest has reportedly led to fatalities, including two Nigerians, sparking concern within the diaspora and renewed calls for government intervention.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged foreign nationals to obey local laws while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to human rights.
