FG demands end to attacks on Nigerians in South Africa

The Nigerian government has urged South Africa to swiftly address and prevent incidents of xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against African nationals within its borders. This call came from the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, during a virtual roundtable discussion held on the topic. Enikanolaiye highlighted the importance of robust migration governance, responsible political leadership, and strengthened people-to-people relationships across Africa to avoid further violence against migrants.

He emphasized that Nigeria perceived the situation as a pressing issue that must be tackled without denial or overreaction, arguing that the term "Afrophobia" accurately described the nature of these attacks. The minister expressed concern over the irony of citizens from nations that once supported South Africa during its struggle against apartheid now being considered "unwanted outsiders."

To preserve the historical record of Nigeria's role in South Africa's liberation struggle, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs directed the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) to conduct a comprehensive study documenting the country's support for the liberation movement. Nigeria's financial commitment to this cause is estimated at over $60 billion, in addition to nationalizing British Petroleum, providing scholarships, and extending hospitality to South African leaders in Nigeria.

Enikanolaiye stressed that the historical connection between Nigeria and South Africa extends beyond mere trade or diplomatic relations, encompassing shared sacrifices and solidarity. He emphasized that the continued violence threatens South Africa's international reputation, investor confidence, and regional integration, as well as diminishing the moral authority South Africa gained through its liberation struggle.

The minister called on South African authorities to improve transparency and fairness in migration systems, ensuring that enforcement of immigration laws remains the sole responsibility of the state. He warned against vigilantism and urged political leaders to refrain from using disparaging terms like "criminals" or "job thieves" that could foster an environment conducive to violence.

Enikanolaiye also advocated for relying more on facts and data in public discourse, rather than misinformation and rumors on social media. He called for the activation of existing Nigeria-South Africa early-warning and rapid-response mechanisms to address tensions before they escalate into violence. Beyond government efforts, the minister called for enhanced people-to-people diplomacy involving businesses, universities, religious and traditional institutions, youth organizations, civil society groups, and the media.

This engagement, he said, would help rebuild trust and promote a shared African identity. Nigeria, in partnership with Ghana, would present the issue at the upcoming African Union Assembly of Heads of State and Government, aiming to draw attention to the need for addressing hate-driven violence against African nationals. The minister reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu's commitment to the welfare and protection of Nigerians abroad, citing the President's role in the recent repatriation of Nigerians from South Africa.