FG Demands Stronger Protection For Nigerians In South Africa

The Federal Government has asked South Africa to take urgent steps to stop attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals, warning that repeated violence threatens relations across the continent.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sola Enikanolaiye made the call at a virtual roundtable on South Africa’s xenophobia, convened by the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs. A statement from his aide Raphael Oni was issued on Wednesday.

Enikanolaiye said Nigeria viewed the attacks as a serious challenge that should be addressed without denial or exaggeration. He also argued that “Afrophobia” better describes violence directed at African migrants in South Africa.

The minister said about 90 Nigerians had been killed in such attacks since June 2022. He called for stronger migration systems, responsible public messaging and full activation of Nigeria-South Africa early-warning and rapid-response mechanisms.

The call comes amid continued concern over the safety of Nigerians in South Africa. NaijaTrend earlier reported here on government steps to document compensation claims from Nigerians affected by attacks in the country.

Enikanolaiye said Nigeria, working with Ghana, would raise the matter at the next African Union Assembly of Heads of State and Government. He also reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians abroad.

Source: Punch