Nigeria: Nigerians urge South Africa to protect citizens amid xenophobic attacks

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has called on the South African government to protect Nigerians and other black immigrants from xenophobic attacks. The commission expressed concern over worsening persecution, with reports of Nigerian pupils afraid to attend school and business owners shutting down operations due to targeted attacks.

NiDCOM urges South Africa to take urgent steps to protect foreign nationals, citing international law and African Union protocols. The commission rejects profiling and generalisation of Nigerians, stressing that crime should be treated individually

Key demands include increased police presence, swift prosecution of perpetrators, and clear public messaging condemning xenophobia. Nigerians are advised to remain law-abiding and avoid high-risk areas, particularly at night.

NiDCOM commends peaceful coexistence between South Africans and other Africans, reaffirming Nigeria-South Africa ties. The commission will continue diplomatic efforts to ensure citizen safety and dignity.