NANS Urges Nigerian Government to Protect Students in S'Africa

The Nigerian Students Association (NANS) issued an urgent appeal to the Nigerian government on Wednesday, calling for immediate intervention to ensure the safety of Nigerian students in South Africa due to increasing xenophobic tensions. NANS Vice President for External Affairs, Anek Kenechukwu, expressed deep concern over a disturbing pattern of hostility and targeted attacks against foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians.

The association warned that the situation poses a serious threat to lives and undermines the principles of African unity. They urged the Nigerian government to engage South African authorities for security guarantees and to monitor developments closely.

NANS also recommended immediate support measures for affected students, including safe shelter, dedicated emergency hotlines, and financial assistance. Furthermore, they suggested the development of a coordinated evacuation plan for Nigerian students.

The statement highlighted that xenophobic protests have intensified, with incidents in Pretoria leading to violence, including fatalities among Nigerians, prompting renewed calls for government intervention.