FG summons South Africa’s envoy over xenophobic attacks on Nigerians

Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has summoned the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa for a meeting scheduled to take place at the ministry on Monday, May 4, 2026.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday.

The minister noted that the meeting was scheduled to formally convey Nigeria’s concern on recent events that have the potential to impact the cordial relations between Nigeria and South Africa.

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She said the meeting would primarily focus on the ongoing demonstrations by various groups within South Africa, documented instances of mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and attacks on their businesses.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated: “The ministry is aware of the growing discontent among Nigerians concerning the treatment of their nationals in South Africa.

“Nevertheless, the ministry 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.”