Xenophobia: 130 Nigerians Register for Voluntary Evacuation from South Africa
At least 130 Nigerians have registered for voluntary evacuation flights from South Africa as the Nigerian government moves to safeguard its citizens amid rising tensions linked to anti-foreigner protests.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this in a situation report shared on Sunday. She explained that the evacuation plan is part of broader diplomatic and security measures being coordinated with Nigerian missions in South Africa.
According to the minister, the initiative follows directives from President Bola Tinubu, who ordered increased monitoring of the situation and stronger protection for Nigerians abroad.
“The President has reiterated that the priority at this time remains the safety of our citizens,” she said. “Arrangements are underway to collate details of Nigerians in South Africa for voluntary repatriation flights for those seeking assistance to return home.”
She added that the number of applicants—currently at 130—is expected to rise as more Nigerians indicate interest in returning.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also confirmed that the ministry had summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner over the unrest, while diplomatic engagements with South African authorities continue.
The development comes amid renewed anti-immigrant protests in cities such as Pretoria and Johannesburg, raising concerns about the safety of foreign nationals, including Nigerians.
“There is heightened anxiety over the series of anti-foreigner protests, particularly those targeting Nigerians in select cities in recent weeks,” the minister noted.
She said the President had expressed grave concern following a security briefing and called for more effective control of the situation by South African authorities.
While South African officials, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, have condemned the violence, disturbing images circulating online have heightened global concern.
“The images depicting violence, targeted attacks, and xenophobic rhetoric have generated worldwide condemnation,” she said.
Despite these concerns, Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that protests held between April 27 and 29, 2026, were largely peaceful, albeit under heavy police presence.
“There were no recorded killings of Nigerians or destruction of Nigerian-owned properties during these particular demonstrations,” she clarified.
However, she confirmed two separate deaths involving Nigerians, both allegedly linked to encounters with security personnel.
One victim, Amamiro Chidiebere Emmanuel, reportedly died from injuries sustained after an alleged assault by members of the South African National Defence Force in Port Elizabeth.
Another Nigerian, Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew, was found dead at the Pretoria Central Mortuary following an alleged interaction with the Tshwane Metro Police.
Describing both incidents as unacceptable, the minister said Nigeria is closely monitoring investigations and has demanded justice.
“These incidents are utterly condemnable. The Nigerian High Commission is following developments closely, and we expect justice to be served,” she stated.
She further revealed that another wave of protests is expected between May 4 and 8, prompting intensified diplomatic and security coordination between both countries.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed that Nigerian missions are working closely with South African authorities to ensure the protection of citizens while evacuation preparations continue.
She also highlighted Nigeria’s historical role in South Africa’s liberation struggle, urging that this legacy be recognised, particularly by younger generations.
“Nigerian lives and businesses in South Africa must not continue to be put at risk. We remain committed to working with South Africa to end this recurring pattern of xenophobia,” she said.
The minister added that such tensions often intensify ahead of elections, with some political groups exploiting anti-foreigner sentiments for electoral gain.
She noted that Nigeria and South Africa recently signed a memorandum of understanding on early warning mechanisms to protect citizens of both nations during crises.