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Nigeria’s foreign ministry issued a statement on May 3, 2026, announcing that it will formally summon South Africa’s envoy on Monday to convey its “profound concern” over incidents of violence targeting foreign nationals in South Africa. The ministry warned that the situation could affect existing relations between the two nations.

Escalating Violence

According to local media reports, anti-immigrant protests have erupted in several South African cities in recent weeks, with some demonstrations escalating into violent confrontations. At least two Nigerians and four Ethiopians have been killed in the unrest, while citizens of other African countries have also been targeted, with attacks on their businesses and properties.

The Nigerian foreign ministry stated that the meeting will focus on recent marches organized by anti-immigrant groups and “documented instances of mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and attacks on their businesses.”

Historical Context

As Africa’s most industrialized nation, South Africa has long been a destination for workers from across the continent. Since the end of apartheid, people from throughout Africa have traveled to South Africa seeking employment opportunities.

However, xenophobic sentiment has been rising in South Africa in recent years. Some South Africans accuse foreigners of residing in the country illegally, taking jobs from locals, and having links to criminal activities, particularly drug trafficking.

South African Government Response

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the attacks on foreign nationals but also cautioned that foreigners should respect local laws.

In his Freedom Day address last week, marking the country’s first democratic elections in 1994, Ramaphosa reminded South Africans of the support other African nations had provided during the struggle against the racist system of apartheid.

Diplomatic Implications

Nigeria’s decision to formally summon South Africa’s envoy marks a significant diplomatic escalation in response to the xenophobic violence. As Africa’s most populous nation and one of its largest economies, Nigeria’s diplomatic posture toward South Africa could have broader implications for continental politics.

The African Union has repeatedly called on member states to take measures to protect foreign nationals within their borders. Analysts suggest that if the South African government fails to effectively curb xenophobic violence, it could undermine its leadership position on the African continent.

International Attention

The UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights has previously expressed concern over xenophobic violence in South Africa, calling on the government to take all necessary measures to protect all individuals within its territory, regardless of nationality.

The international community widely views South Africa, as a key economy and democratic model on the African continent, as having a responsibility to ensure the safety of all people living and working within its borders.

Source: BBC News