Nigeria Demands Action Against Xenophobic Attacks in SA

Nigeria has called on the South African Government to take decisive action against recurring xenophobic attacks that have led to the deaths of Nigerians and other African nationals. This appeal was made following a visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s special envoy, led by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, to Abuja.

Lamola acknowledged Nigeria’s historical support during South Africa’s liberation struggle and reiterated President Ramaphosa’s condemnation of xenophobia and violence while emphasizing South Africa's right to enforce its immigration laws. In response, Nigerian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanlaiye, expressed concern over the ongoing attacks on Nigerians, which have strained relations between the two nations.

He highlighted the need for discussions to end the violence and protect law-abiding migrants. Enikanlaiye noted that at least 98 Nigerians have been killed in mob and hate-related attacks in South Africa since 2022.

Both countries held a closed-door meeting to discuss security and migration issues.