Nigeria has begun arrangements for the voluntary evacuation of its citizens from South Africa following a surge in xenophobic violence and anti-immigrant protests across major cities.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed on Sunday that at least 130 Nigerians have already registered for repatriation, with expectations that more will come forward.
According to the Minister, the move follows a directive from President Bola Tinubu, who has ordered close monitoring of the situation and prioritised the safety of Nigerians abroad.
“The President has reiterated that the priority at this time remains the safety of our citizens,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu said.
“Arrangements are currently underway to collate details of Nigerians in South Africa for voluntary repatriation flights.”
The evacuation plan comes amid reports of fatalities involving Nigerian nationals. Odumegwu-Ojukwu confirmed that two Nigerians recently died in separate incidents allegedly involving South African security personnel.
One victim, Amamiro Chidiebere Emmanuel, reportedly died from injuries sustained after an alleged assault by members of the South African National Defence Force in Port Elizabeth. Another, Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew, was found dead after an encounter with the Tshwane Metro Police.
The Minister expressed concern over the recurring violence.
“Nigerian lives and businesses in South Africa must not continue to be put at risk,” she said.
“We remain committed to working with South Africa to end this troubling pattern.”
In response, the Nigerian government has summoned South Africa’s acting High Commissioner, Bobby Moroe, for urgent talks in Abuja. The meeting is expected to address rising tensions and the safety of Nigerian citizens.
Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said the meeting will formally convey Nigeria’s “profound concern” over recent developments that could strain diplomatic relations.
The violence follows protests held between April 27 and 29 in cities such as Pretoria and Johannesburg, where foreign-owned businesses were warned to shut down amid fears of attacks.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the violence but urged foreign nationals to comply with local laws.
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia also warned:
“Acts of xenophobia, violence, looting or intimidation will not be tolerated under any circumstances.”
Despite these assurances, Nigerians living in South Africa report ongoing fear and disruption.
Peter Odike, a Nigerian-born businessman who became a South African citizen, told the BBC:
“Business is totally down. Most of us are shutting down because it’s not safe to stay here.”
Community leaders say children of Nigerian descent are increasingly afraid to attend school, while many shop owners have closed their businesses due to security concerns.
With more protests anticipated between May 4 and 8, both Nigerian and South African authorities are stepping up coordination efforts to prevent further violence.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that disturbing images circulating online have intensified global concern, despite official condemnations from South African authorities.
South Africa hosts an estimated 2.4 million migrants, less than four percent of its population, though unofficial figures are believed to be higher.
The Nigerian government has urged calm among its citizens while reaffirming its commitment to protecting their rights and safety abroad.
