NUSA's Smart Nwobi Addresses Nigerian Exodus from South Africa

The Nigerian Union in South Africa (NUSA), represented by President-General Smart Nwobi, declared that it is not feasible for all Nigerians residing in South Africa to leave the country due to renewed anti-immigration protests and violence. Nwobi pointed out that many Nigerians have lived in South Africa for decades, some even before apartheid, and have established families and businesses there.

He noted that the recent unrest, which included the torching of at least 24 vehicles and looting of foreign-owned shops in Johannesburg and Durban, affects all African migrants, not just Nigerians. The protests were triggered by a Constitutional Court ruling that eased asylum application processes for certain migrants.

Nwobi mentioned that while efforts are being made to assist Nigerians wishing to return home, the number of those seeking to leave is significantly lower than the total Nigerian population in South Africa. He reported that approximately 2,500 Nigerians have left the country, with the Federal Government's evacuation program accounting for 1,490 individuals as of July 15, 2026.