Tinubu Calls for Action Against Xenophobia at AU Meeting

President Bola Tinubu addressed the recurring xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks targeting Africans and other nationals in South Africa during the 21st Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union held in Luanda, Angola. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu called for urgent action from African leaders to tackle these issues, which he stated threaten the unity and peaceful coexistence of African nations.

He acknowledged South Africa's right to enforce its immigration laws but insisted that such rights should not justify violent attacks that undermine relations among African countries. Tinubu requested that the African Union include this matter in the agenda for its 40th Ordinary Session scheduled for January 2027.

He also advocated for stronger continental efforts to combat xenophobia and Afrophobia, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and preventive diplomacy. Additionally, he supported the adoption of the Luanda Action Plan for conflict prevention across Africa, arguing that proactive measures are more effective than reactive responses.