The Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government has summoned the acting High Commissioner of South Africa for a meeting in Abuja over recent attacks on Nigerians and their businesses.
NOP NIGERIA understands that the meeting is expected to hold on Monday at the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In a statement, the spokesperson of the ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the move was aimed at addressing developments capable of straining relations between both countries.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has extended an invitation to the acting High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa for a meeting scheduled to take place on Monday, May 4, 2026, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
“The objective of this engagement is to formally convey the Nigerian Government’s profound concern regarding recent events that have the potential to impact the established cordial relations between Nigeria and South Africa,” the statement said
The ministry said discussions would centre on ongoing demonstrations in South Africa and reported cases of mistreatment of Nigerian nationals.
“Discussions will primarily focus on the ongoing demonstrations… and the documented instances of mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and attacks on their businesses,” it stated.
While acknowledging growing concerns among Nigerians, the government appealed for restraint.
“The ministry is aware of the growing discontent among Nigerians concerning the treatment of their nationals in South Africa.
“Nevertheless, it implores the Nigerian public to remain calm and reiterates the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of Nigerian citizens residing in South Africa,” the statement added.
Reports indicate that xenophobic protests have escalated in parts of South Africa, including Pretoria, with migrants facing harassment and violence.
Some incidents reportedly involved attempts to remove children of foreign nationals from schools.
The unrest has reportedly led to fatalities, including two Nigerians, raising concerns within the diaspora.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged foreign nationals to respect local laws while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to human rights.
