Nigeria plans voluntary return of nationals from South Africa after attacks

Nigeria says it is preparing a voluntary evacuation of its nationals from South Africa following renewed concerns over xenophobic violence targeting foreign Africans.

In a statement issued on Sunday via X, Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu‑Ojukwu said 130 Nigerians have already registered for voluntary repatriation with the country’s mission in South Africa, a figure expected to rise as fears over safety and livelihoods grow.

"Nigerian lives and businesses in South Africa must not continue to be put at risk," she said, citing two separate deaths of Nigerian nationals last month involving South African security personnel. The minister also warned that another wave of demonstrations is expected between 4 and 8 May, prompting intensified diplomatic and security coordination between the two countries.

South Africa has experienced recurring outbreaks of anti‑immigrant violence over the years, with foreign‑owned businesses often targeted. Recent tensions have raised fresh concerns, particularly as the country approaches local elections scheduled for November.

Nigeria has raised the issue with South African authorities, with officials from both sides engaging in diplomatic talks. South Africa’s Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola said the two countries had agreed to strengthen cooperation in addressing migration-related challenges.

"We reflected on the challenges posed by irregular migration and committed to working to address the root causes," Lamola said.

Meanwhile, South Africa’s acting police minister Firoz Cachalia condemned attacks on foreign nationals, describing them as unlawful and contrary to the country’s constitutional values.

"Acts of xenophobia, violence, looting or intimidation will not be tolerated under any circumstances," he said.

According to the statistics agency, there are about three million foreigners living in South Africa, or 5.1% of the population. More than 63% come from countries within the 16‑member Southern African Development Community (SADC).