The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has summoned the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa for talks on Monday, May 4, over attacks on Nigerian residents and businesses in South Africa. The meeting was confirmed in a statement issued Saturday by ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa. He said Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu will use the meeting to express Nigeria's deep concern about recent events that could affect bilateral ties. The discussions will centre on ongoing protests in South Africa and verified reports of Nigerian nationals facing abuse and having their businesses targeted. Ebienfa stated that the ministry recognises rising public concern in Nigeria over the safety of its citizens abroad. The Federal Government, he added, is committed to safeguarding the rights and welfare of Nigerians in South Africa. The public has been urged to remain calm while diplomatic efforts proceed.
The Federal Government expresses concern over attacks on Nigerians in South Africa yet scheduled the diplomatic meeting for over a week after the incidents became public. If the situation is urgent enough to warrant national attention, delaying the envoy's summons risks signalling a reactive rather than proactive stance. Nigerian citizens abroad may question how their safety is being prioritised in real time. The gap between public outrage and official response timing could undermine confidence in diplomatic protection.
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