NiDCOM Urges South Africa to End Xenophobic Attacks

The Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), chaired by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has issued a statement urging the South African government to take urgent measures to protect Nigerian and other African migrants amid a rise in xenophobic attacks. The commission expressed concern over increasing tensions targeting black immigrants, which have escalated despite previous diplomatic engagements aimed at de-escalating the situation.

Reports indicate that children of Nigerian descent are fearful of attending school, and business owners have closed shops due to threats of violence. NiDCOM has called for immediate action from South African authorities to safeguard foreign nationals, stressing that criminal acts should be treated individually rather than stigmatizing entire nations.

The commission also warned against collective punishment and urged the establishment of a joint safety forum between Nigeria and South Africa. The statement follows recent protests led by anti-immigrant groups in South Africa, raising diplomatic concerns regarding the safety of the Nigerian diaspora.