Nigeria Summons South Africa’s Envoy Over Xenophobic Attacks on Citizens
Last update: May 3, 2026
Disclaimer: This website may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you click on the link and make a purchase. We only recommend products or services that we personally use and believe will add value to our readers. Your support is appreciated!
Diplomatic tensions are rising as Nigeria takes a firm stand, summoning South Africa’s top diplomat over fresh xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other foreign nationals.
CBI News reports that the Federal Government of Nigeria has summoned South Africa’s acting High Commissioner in Abuja following renewed xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals, including Nigerian citizens.
According to Nigeria’s foreign ministry, the envoy is expected to meet with officials to address “documented instances of mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and attacks on their businesses,” as confirmed by spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
The development comes amid growing concern over recurring anti-immigrant violence in South Africa, where unemployment exceeding 30% has fueled periodic protests and attacks against foreigners.
The situation has also drawn regional attention, with Ghana recently summoning South Africa’s acting High Commissioner in Accra over similar incidents involving Ghanaian nationals.
Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, highlighted a disturbing case in KwaZulu-Natal where a Ghanaian resident was confronted and told to leave the country and “fix his country.”
Authorities warned of escalating tensions, advising foreign nationals to remain indoors for safety as fears of further violence grow.
South Africa, Africa’s most industrialised economy, hosts over three million foreign nationals — about 5.1% of its population — with the majority coming from countries within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
In response to the crisis, acting police minister Firoz Cachalia condemned the attacks, describing them as unlawful and contrary to constitutional values.
“Acts of xenophobia, violence, looting, or intimidation will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” he said, adding that police have been directed to act decisively.
As diplomatic engagements intensify, pressure is mounting on South African authorities to curb the violence and ensure the safety of foreign nationals.
#Xenophobia #NigeriaSouthAfrica #BreakingNews #AfricanUnity #ProtectNigerians #Ghana #DiplomaticTensions #ImmigrationCrisis #SouthAfrica #NaijaNews #GlobalNews #SADC
