Xenophobia: FG summons South African Acting High Commissioner
The Nigerian government has summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner to Nigeria over the ongoing protest against foreign nationals. No fewer than two Nigerians have been killed since the commencement of
The Nigerian government has summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner to Nigeria over the ongoing protest against foreign nationals.
No fewer than two Nigerians have been killed since the commencement of the protest on Monday 27 April 2026.
Also, properties and businesses of Nigerians were also attacked in a protest that is mainly targeted against African nationals in South Africa.
The spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa who disclosed the development, said the acting High Commissioner’s invitation is for Monday 4 May 2026.
The most senior officer in the South Africa High Commission in Abuja is expected to honour the invitation.
Ebienfa noted that the essence of the engagement is to formally convey the Nigerian government's profound concern regarding recent events that have the potential to impact the established cordial relations between Nigeria and South Africa.
The statement reads: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has extended an invitation to the Acting High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa for a meeting scheduled to take place on Monday, May 4, 2026, at the Ministry's headquarters in Abuja.
“The objective of this engagement is to formally convey the Nigerian Government's profound concern regarding recent events that have the potential to impact the established cordial relations between Nigeria and South Africa.
“Discussions will primarily focus on the ongoing demonstrations by various groups within South Africa and the documented instances of mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and attacks on their businesses.
“The Ministry is aware of the growing discontent among Nigerians concerning the treatment of their nationals in South Africa. Nevertheless, it implores the Nigerian public to remain calm and reiterates the Federal Government's commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of Nigerian citizens residing in South Africa.”
