The Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce has appealed for peace, dialogue and stronger bilateral cooperation following renewed xenophobic unrest in South Africa affecting Nigerians, businesses and regional stability.

The Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce (NSACC) has called for calm, peaceful dialogue and stronger bilateral cooperation following recent xenophobic unrest in South Africa. According to a statement cited by cbinews.tv and issued on Tuesday in Lagos, the chamber urged both countries to prioritise unity and social cohesion amid growing tensions.

According to CBINews, Chairman of the NSACC, Dr Ije Jidenma, expressed deep concern over the unrest, noting that the violence has negatively impacted communities, businesses and livelihoods across affected areas.

She stated that the chamber is particularly worried about the safety and welfare of Nigerians and other African nationals residing in South Africa, as well as the wider implications for South African businesses and investor confidence.

“As an organisation committed to fostering strong economic and cultural ties between Nigeria and South Africa, we emphasise that moments like this call for restraint and constructive engagements,” Jidenma said.

She stressed that Nigeria and South Africa share a long-standing relationship built on mutual respect, trade, cooperation and a collective vision for Africa’s prosperity, adding that these values must remain central during periods of tension.

Dr Jidenma further urged governments, community leaders, civil society organisations and citizens to embrace peaceful dialogue while upholding the rule of law.

According to her, ensuring the safety and protection of all residents regardless of nationality is vital to maintaining trust, stability and economic resilience.

The NSACC also called for continued collaboration between Nigerian and South African authorities to address the root causes of the unrest, prevent further escalation and strengthen conflict resolution mechanisms.

“Our thoughts are with all those affected. We remain committed to working alongside our partners to promote unity, economic resilience and renewed focus on the shared opportunities that bind our two nations,” she added.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has already initiated diplomatic engagements, investigations, legislative measures and voluntary evacuation efforts in response to the situation.

#Nigeria #SouthAfrica #Xenophobia #NSACC #AfricaTrade #Diplomacy #AfricanUnity #BusinessNews #cbinewstv #LagosNews