Nigeria is planning to repatriate its nationals in South Africa who volunteer to return home. This measure follows a surge in attacks and hostile rhetoric directed at foreigners. Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu reported that 130 Nigerians have already signed up for this repatriation effort. The number is expected to grow as more citizens express their desire to leave.
President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria voiced strong concerns about the escalating violence in South Africa. He spoke out against the mistreatment of foreign nationals. The minister condemned demonstrations marked by xenophobic speeches and anti-migrant statements. Nigeria has officially summoned South Africa's acting High Commissioner to discuss the situation urgently. The Nigerian government views these incidents as a threat to the ongoing good relations between the two nations. The focus will be on recent marches by groups opposing immigrants. They will also address documented cases of harm to Nigerians and their businesses.
This situation fits into a larger pattern of South Africa grappling with xenophobia. As the continent's most industrialized economy, South Africa has long been a destination for job seekers from across Africa. However, this influx has sometimes led to resentment. Some South Africans claim that foreigners take jobs and contribute to crime. This sentiment has been fueled by anti-immigrant groups. These groups often demand identity documents from people, especially in public spaces. These tensions impact regional economic integration efforts. Nigeria's move could strain further diplomatic ties.
Nigeria's Foreign Minister stated that Nigerian lives and businesses must no longer be at risk. She committed to working with South Africa to end this violence. She specifically mentioned the killing of two Nigerians by local security personnel. Nigeria is demanding justice for these victims. The president's top priority is ensuring the safety of Nigerian citizens abroad. Arrangements are being made to collect details of Nigerians in South Africa. This is for facilitating voluntary return flights for those needing assistance.
Reports indicate that at least four Ethiopian nationals have also been killed recently. Attacks on citizens from other African countries are also noted. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned these attacks. He also reminded foreigners to respect local laws. He recently marked Freedom Day, recalling the support from other African nations during the fight against apartheid. However, some South Africans express grievances. They cite illegal immigration, job losses, and links to drug trafficking. These grievances are often amplified by anti-immigrant movements. The Nigerian community's leadership in South Africa has also faced scrutiny, raising local political concerns.
South Africa hosts an estimated 2.4 million migrants. This represents less than 4% of its population. However, a significant number may reside there without official documentation. Most migrants come from neighbouring countries like Lesotho and Zimbabwe. Nigerians represent a smaller portion of this migrant population. The current repatriation plan highlights the severity of the safety concerns for Nigerian nationals and underscores the ongoing challenges of migration and xenophobia within the African continent.