NLC Urges COSATU to Protect Migrants Amid Xenophobia

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on South African trade unions, specifically the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), to take immediate measures to address the increasing xenophobic attacks against African migrants in South Africa. In a letter dated May 7, 2026, NLC President Joe Ajaero condemned the recent incidents involving the killing of African migrants and the destruction of businesses.

Ajaero described these attacks as a consequence of worsening economic conditions and ineffective government policies. He stressed that African workers should not turn against each other and urged COSATU to lead extensive sensitization efforts within communities and workplaces to counter the narrative that blames migrants for unemployment and poverty.

Ajaero criticized the inadequate response from South African security agencies, accusing them of failing to provide sufficient protection for migrants and businesses. He called for the full deployment of security resources to prevent further violence and demanded the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the attacks.

The NLC emphasized that xenophobia poses a major threat to worker solidarity across Africa and weakens collective bargaining efforts.