Nigeria Presses South Africa To Protect Foreign Nationals
By AMINA USMAN ABDULRAHMAN
NIGERIA has renewed its demand for stronger protection of its citizens living in South Africa. The Federal Government urged South African authorities to bring perpetrators of attacks against Nigerians and other African migrants to justice. It said no foreign resident should be denied protection under the law.
The appeal came during a high-level diplomatic meeting in Abuja between Foreign Affairs Minister Amb. Sola Enikanolaiye and South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola. Lamola was in Nigeria as the Special Envoy of President Cyril Ramaphosa. He delivered a message highlighting the enduring friendship between both nations.
Enikanolaiye said Nigeria and South Africa have maintained close ties since the struggle against apartheid. He noted that Nigeria played a significant role in supporting South Africa’s liberation and has continued to promote African cooperation through regional institutions.
Despite the strong relationship, the minister said repeated attacks on Nigerians remain a major concern. He revealed that 98 Nigerians have died in mob and hate-related incidents in South Africa since 2022. He described the violence as unacceptable and called for decisive government action.
The minister maintained that Nigeria condemns criminal conduct, including drug trafficking. He stressed, however, that suspects should face lawful prosecution rather than mob justice. According to him, respect for due process remains essential to protecting human rights and strengthening confidence in the justice system.
He warned that persistent Afrophobic violence could damage bilateral relations and weaken the vision of African unity. He called for improved security measures to protect all lawful residents regardless of nationality.
In his response, Lamola reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with Nigeria. He expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s historic support during the liberation struggle and described the relationship as one built on shared values and mutual respect.
Lamola said the South African government rejects xenophobia and every form of intolerance. He stated that President Ramaphosa has repeatedly spoken against attacks on foreign nationals. He added that South Africa will continue to enforce its immigration laws while respecting constitutional rights and promoting orderly migration through cooperation with other African countries.
