Nigeria Won't Accept Mistreatment in South Africa, Shettima Declares

Vice President Kashim Shettima declared on Monday that Nigeria will no longer accept how its citizens are being treated in South Africa, signaling an intensification of the federal government's approach to recurring xenophobic violence. While addressing journalists in Luanda, Angola, Shettima noted that Nigerians and other African nationals have faced attacks crossing a line his country refuses to ignore.

Representing President Bola Tinubu at the African Union's 21st Extraordinary Session held in Angola, the Vice President underscored that bilateral tensions could be resolved through dialogue. Yet his remarks suggest Nigeria is willing to adopt a tougher stance should violence continue.

Shettima also referenced Nigeria's involvement in liberating Southern Africa, implying this contribution establishes obligations for how South African authorities must regard African migrants and travelers. During the AU assembly, Tinubu's delegation brought the xenophobia concern before other continental leaders, requesting coordinated measures to safeguard Africans and enhance regional ties.

The President sought placement of this issue on the 40th Ordinary Session agenda in January 2027, treating it as a broader continental matter rather than merely a two-nation problem. Simultaneously reaffirming its dedication to resolving matters via structured dialogue, the federal government has established boundaries regarding acceptable conduct.

Shettima's pronouncements suggest upcoming talks with South Africa will proceed with this warning in mind, though he refrained from outlining specific measures Nigeria might implement should mistreatment of its nationals persist.