Ongoing Xenophobic attacks in South Africa is indeed costing Nigerian enormous losses in both human terms, loss of properties and business as well as displacement.
This is just as no less than 130 Nigerians have already registered for voluntary evacuation flights from South Africa, a move initiated by the Federal Government to safeguard its citizens.
The evacuation arrangement is part of broader diplomatic and security measures being coordinated with Nigerian missions in South Africa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has stated.
Speaking via her X handle yesterday, the minister explained that President Bola Tinubu had ordered the evacuation of Nigerians and heightened monitoring of the situation
She also confirmed the figure of casualties thus far:
“..arrangements are currently underway to collate details of Nigerians in South Africa for voluntary repatriation flights for those seeking assistance to return home.
“So far, 130 applicants have duly registered for the exercise with our mission,” noting that the number is expected to increase as more citizens seek assistance to return home.
“The protests spearheaded by a local anti-migration movement, in Pretoria and Johannesburg, between 27 – 29 April 2026, witnessed a largely peaceful procession, under the presence of heavily armed police who occasionally sprayed teargas to deter the protesters from engaging in violent activity.
“There is no recorded killing of any Nigerian or destruction of Nigerian-owned properties during this particular protest,” the minister explained.
READ ALSO: South Africa Xenophobic Attacks: Ghana Foreign Minister Addresses Nationals
READ ALSO: Breaking: South Africa Cuts Power Supply To Nigerian High Commission
“Amamiro Chidiebere Emmanuel died on 25th of April 2026 as a result of injuries sustained from brutal beatings by military personnel of the South African National Defence Force on 20th April 2026 in Port Elizabeth.
“Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew also died following an alleged interaction with members of the Tshwane Metro Police, and his body was discovered at the Pretoria Central Mortuary on 20th April 2026.”
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also confirmed that the ministry had summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner over the xenophobic attacks while diplomatic engagements continue with authorities in South Africa.
“There is heightened anxiety over the series of anti-foreigner protests, also targeted at Nigerians in select cities in the Republic of South Africa in recent weeks,” the minister said.
She added that while South African authorities, including President Cyril Ramaphosa and senior security officials, had condemned violence, disturbing images circulating online had fuelled international concern.
“The images pervading both mainstream and social media depicting violence, carnage and targeted xenophobic killings of foreign nationals and demonstrations characterised by xenophobic rhetoric, hate speeches and incendiary anti-migrant statements by the arrowheads of such rallies, have generated worldwide condemnation,” she stated.
“This is utterly condemnable and unacceptable. The Nigerian High Commission is closely following investigations into these unfortunate incidents, and Nigeria demands justice be done in these cases.”
Giving indication of another wave of xenophobic attacks , she said demonstrations were being expected between May 4 and 8, 2026, prompting further security and diplomatic coordination between both countries.
“Nigeria is a frontline state which made great sacrifices towards the liberation struggles of South Africa, a fact which needs to be distilled down to the younger generation in South Africa.
“Nigerian lives and businesses in SA must not continue to be put at risk, and we remain committed to working with South Africa to explore ways to put an end to this xenophobic pattern.
“It has become a repetitive wave, most especially before elections in South Africa, and anti-foreigner opposition parties leverage this situation to garner votes.
“Nigeria recently signed a memorandum of understanding with South Africa on early warning to protect citizens of both countries, especially in times such as these.”
Cami Ezenwa is a Writer, Editor, Publicist, Biographer and Journalism Trainer
He has worked with the Daily Times, Daily Independent, Financial Standard and Business Television to mention some.
His ongoing Corporate Communications Master Class training series equips learners with credible hands-on skills for effective Media Relations, Public Communications & Corporate Affairs amongst others.
He can be contacted via 09165809519 or 08180335778.