Nigeria, South Africa Move to Ease Tensions Over Xenophobic Attacks on Nigerians

The governments of Nigeria and South Africa have begun fresh diplomatic efforts to ease tensions following recent xenophobic attacks that targeted Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa.

During high-level talks in Abuja, Nigeria's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, met with South Africa's Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, to discuss the growing concern over attacks on foreign nationals.

South Africa Promises Action

At the meeting, South Africa assured Nigeria that those responsible for the attacks would be investigated and prosecuted.

Minister Lamola said the South African government condemns xenophobia and stressed that the violence was not state-sponsored. He added that authorities would strengthen policing, introduce early warning measures where necessary and continue efforts to protect all people living legally in the country.

Nigeria Demands Better Protection

Nigeria expressed concern that repeated attacks on its citizens have damaged confidence in the safety of Nigerians living and working in South Africa.

The Federal Government said it is compiling compensation claims for Nigerians who lost property or suffered injuries during the violence. Officials also reiterated that anyone suspected of committing crimes should be prosecuted through the courts rather than being subjected to mob violence.

Thousands of Nigerians Already Repatriated

The latest talks follow the recent voluntary evacuation of about 1,490 Nigerians from South Africa after weeks of anti-immigrant violence and intimidation.

The repatriation highlighted the seriousness of the situation and prompted renewed diplomatic engagement between Africa's two largest economies.

Preserving a Key African Partnership

Despite recurring tensions over xenophobic violence, Nigeria and South Africa remain major political and economic partners on the continent.

Both governments said they are committed to strengthening bilateral relations while ensuring that foreign nationals are protected and that those responsible for unlawful attacks are held accountable.