Ex-Nigerian Envoy Calls for Compensation from South Africa

Joseph Ayalogu, a former Nigerian ambassador to Switzerland, has demanded that the South African government provide compensation for victims of xenophobic attacks, particularly targeting Nigerians and other foreign nationals. During an interview on Channel Television, Ayalogu condemned the recurrent violence against foreign-owned businesses and urged for stronger enforcement of existing South African laws designed to protect migrants.

He expressed dissatisfaction with the South African government's response to the ongoing violence, noting that public statements from its leadership have not adequately addressed the issue. Ayalogu highlighted that the attacks appear to disproportionately target African nationals, while foreign nationals from countries like the United States and European nations seem less affected.

Amid renewed concerns over violence against African migrants, the Nigerian government has begun evacuating its citizens from South Africa, with plans to repatriate 1,000 registered Nigerians by June 30, 2026. The first batch of 258 Nigerians was airlifted to Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on June 11, 2026, with further flights expected.