The Federal Government has summoned the acting High Commissioner of South Africa for a meeting in Abuja on Monday, May 4, 2026. The meeting will be held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters, the ministry confirmed in a statement issued Saturday by spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa. Officials said the discussion aims to address Nigeria's concern over recent protests in South Africa targeting foreigners, including attacks on Nigerian citizens and their businesses. The ministry described the engagement as necessary to safeguard diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Discussions will focus on documented cases of mistreatment of Nigerians and ongoing demonstrations by groups within South Africa. The ministry acknowledged rising public concern in Nigeria over the situation but urged citizens to remain calm. It reiterated the government's commitment to protecting Nigerian nationals in South Africa.
Reports from Pretoria and other cities indicate escalating xenophobic protests, with migrants facing harassment, violence, and threats. Some protesters attempted to block children of foreign nationals from attending school. At least two Nigerian citizens have died in the unrest, according to reports. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on foreign nationals to respect local laws and affirmed his government's dedication to human rights.
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