Nigeria Urges AU Action Against Xenophobia in South Africa

On August 31, Nigeria formally addressed the African Union regarding the ongoing xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against Africans and other nationals in South Africa. President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, made this demand during the 21st Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union in Luanda, Angola.

Tinubu expressed Nigeria's serious concern over these attacks, stating they undermine African solidarity and peaceful coexistence. He called for stronger continental action against xenophobia and emphasized the importance of dialogue and preventive diplomacy.

While acknowledging South Africa's right to enforce immigration laws, he insisted that such enforcement should not lead to discrimination or violence against other Africans. Tinubu requested that this issue be included in the agenda for the AU's 40th Ordinary Session scheduled for January 2027 to explore appropriate measures.

He advocated for enhanced African-led conflict prevention mechanisms, arguing that proactive measures are more sustainable than reactive ones.