The Nigerian government has called for decisive action to end targeted xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa, urging stronger migration systems, responsible political leadership, and continental solidarity.
The stance was detailed in an official statement signed by Raphael Oni, Special Assistant on Digital Media and Public Diplomacy to the Office of the Honourable Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. The announcement followed a Virtual Roundtable convened by the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) on “South Africa’s Xenophobia in Comparative Perspective.”
Historical Context and Rising Casualties
Addressing the forum, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, described the recurring violence as “Afrophobia,” emphasizing that it specifically targets citizens from nations that historically supported South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle.
Key details highlighted by the ministry include:
- Human Toll: Approximately 90 Nigerians have been killed in Afrophobic violence since June 2022, with new displacements and attacks recorded in 2026.
- Historical Support: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has commissioned the NIIA to document Nigeria’s historical financial and diplomatic contributions to ending apartheid, estimated at over $60bn alongside strategic nationalizations and educational support for South African leaders.
- Diplomatic Escalation: Nigeria, alongside Ghana, plans to present the issue at the upcoming African Union (AU) Assembly of Heads of State and Government to demand structured continental intervention.
Preventative Measures and Strategic Call
The Federal Government urged Pretoria to ensure immigration enforcement remains strictly within state jurisdiction, warning against vigilante groups and inflammatory political rhetoric that labels migrants as criminals.
To prevent future outbreaks, Nigeria called for the full activation of the joint Nigeria–South Africa early-warning and rapid-response mechanisms. Ambassador Enikanolaiye noted that while South Africa has offered to discuss broader economic “push and pull” factors, the immediate focus must remain on halting hate-driven violence and protecting African nationals living in the country.
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