Nigeria Summons South African Envoy Over Xenophobic Attacks

The Federal Government of Nigeria has summoned the South African High Commissioner for a meeting scheduled on May 4, 2026, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Abuja. This action follows rising concerns over recent xenophobic protests in South Africa that have targeted Nigerian citizens and businesses.

The spokesperson for the Ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, stated that the meeting aims to address the developing strain in diplomatic relations between Nigeria and South Africa. The discussions will focus on ongoing demonstrations in South Africa, which have reportedly involved mistreatment and violence against Nigerian nationals.

The Nigerian government has expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens abroad and has urged restraint among the Nigerian public amid growing discontent regarding the treatment of Nigerians in South Africa. Reports indicate that the protests have intensified, with incidents of violence leading to fatalities, including two Nigerians, prompting renewed calls for intervention from the South African government led by President Cyril Ramaphosa.