The Federal Government has warned Nigerians living in South Africa to prioritise their safety by closing businesses and steering clear of protests amid rising xenophobic tensions across the country.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has opened diplomatic engagements with her South African counterpart to address concerns over the safety of Nigerians following widespread demonstrations targeting foreign nationals.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) also issued a strong advisory, urging Nigerian business owners to temporarily shut down operations during the unrest.
In a statement signed by its Director of Media, Publicity and Protocol, Abdulrahman Balogun, the commission cautioned Nigerians against any form of confrontation.
“The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu is engaging with the Foreign Affairs Minister in South Africa,” NiDCOM stated.
The commission further advised Nigerians to remain vigilant and law-abiding while closely monitoring developments.
“NiDCOM is advising all Nigerian citizens to avoid any confrontation with protesters, refrain from engaging with demonstration groups, and monitor local media outlets for real-time safety information.
“Nigerian nationals are urged also to remain law-abiding always.”
NiDCOM specifically urged business owners to take precautionary measures during the protest period.
“It was further advised that Nigerian business owners protect their businesses by closing on Freedom Day, April 27, and to consider remaining closed on April 28 and 29, as foreign-owned businesses are often targeted during unrest.”
The advisory follows escalating violence linked to anti-foreigner protests in several parts of South Africa. An official circular from the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg reported incidents of looting, property damage and injuries in cities including East London, Cape Town, Durban and KwaZulu-Natal.
Further intelligence indicates that additional protests are planned in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29, with demonstrators seeking to pressure the South African government over the presence of foreign nationals.
NiDCOM added that Nigeria’s Consulate General in Johannesburg remains operational and is working closely with South African police authorities to ensure the safety of Nigerian citizens.
