Tinubu Urges AU Action Against Xenophobic Attacks

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu formally addressed the recurring xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against Africans and other nationals in South Africa during the 21st Extraordinary Session of the African Union (AU) in Luanda, Angola. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu emphasized that these incidents undermine African solidarity and peaceful coexistence.

He requested that the AU place this issue on the agenda for the upcoming 40th Ordinary Session of the Assembly scheduled for January 2027. Tinubu acknowledged South Africa's right to enforce its immigration laws but stressed the need for urgent collective action to address the attacks.

He advocated for stronger continental efforts against xenophobia and Afrophobia, highlighting the importance of dialogue and preventive diplomacy. Additionally, he supported the adoption of the Luanda Action Plan for conflict prevention and warned against external interference that could weaken the AU's mechanisms.

Tinubu called for cooperation from arms-producing countries to prevent weapons from reaching terrorists and non-state armed groups.