Nigeria Prioritises Evacuation of Citizens from South Africa Amid Xenophobic Attacks
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has declared that the Federal Government will not remain indifferent to the systematic harassment, humiliation, and extra-judicial killings of its nationals in South Africa.
In a telephone conversation with her South African counterpart, Ronald Lamola, the minister emphasised that the evacuation of Nigerians wishing to return home has become a top priority for the Nigerian government.
According to a statement posted on her Facebook page, Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu informed Lamola that President Bola Tinubu has directed Nigerian Missions in South Africa to immediately establish a Crisis Notification Unit to assist imperilled citizens.
The minister conveyed Nigeria’s position firmly during the call: “Our Government cannot stand by and watch the systematic harassment and humiliation of our nationals resident in SA as well as the extra-judicial killings of our people.”
She stressed that the evacuation of citizens who desire to leave remains the government’s immediate priority. Odumegwu-Ojukwu also called on South African authorities to treat cases of extra-judicial killings of Nigerians more seriously and ensure perpetrators face clear and immediate consequences.
The discussions were triggered by recent anti-migrant protests in South Africa, including Wednesday’s demonstration in Durban on 6th May 2026. While the Durban protest recorded no major violence due to heavy security presence, the Nigerian Mission advised citizens to close their shops and businesses and remain indoors.
The Nigerian minister highlighted concerns over “violent and indiscriminate rhetoric and actions” by South African anti-foreigner political parties, which she said endanger the lives and properties of Nigerians and other foreigners. She warned that such actions could also jeopardise South African interests in Nigeria.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu further drew attention to the bullying of Nigerian children and “Sougerians” – children born to Nigerian-South African parents – in schools, where they are taunted to “return to their country.” She described the practice as “reprehensible and capable of causing trauma to young minds.”
In response, Minister Lamola acknowledged South Africa’s responsibility to protect innocent children and stated that authorities are working through education supervisory bodies to discourage such bullying.
The Nigerian government noted that its citizens have continued to demonstrate “commendable restraint” despite the ongoing crisis.
The situation remains fluid as Nigerian missions monitor developments and prepare support for citizens wishing to return home.
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