The Nigerian government is demanding immediate action and restitution after recent violent outbursts against its citizens residing in South Africa. Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, confirmed that he briefed President Bola Tinubu regarding recent high-level discussions with South African Foreign Minister Roland Lamola. The primary diplomatic focus involves reactivating the Early Warning Mechanism and bolstering the existing bi-national commission to safeguard foreign nationals.
President Tinubu has supported these diplomatic efforts, which have already facilitated the return of approximately 1,490 Nigerians. While government resources supported part of this effort, private citizens also helped fund the evacuation of several groups. Enikanolaiye characterized the hostility as Afrophobic, rather than simple xenophobia, and emphasized the need for a unified African front to halt the cycle of violence.
Addressing the issue of lost assets, the minister noted that Nigeria is currently collecting data from returnees who suffered property damage. This information will support formal claims for compensation from the South African government. Regarding the treatment of immigrants, Enikanolaiye emphasized that all individuals, regardless of their legal status, possess fundamental human rights that must be respected.
While the minister stated that all diplomatic options remain open, he expressed a preference for continued negotiation to ensure the safety and security of Nigerian residents in South Africa. He stressed that ongoing engagement remains the primary strategy for resolving these grievances and securing future protection for African migrants.
