Xenophobia: 130 Nigerians Seek Evacuation from South Africa as Tensions Rise

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu

Xenophobia: 130 Nigerians Seek Evacuation from South Africa as Tensions Rise

At least 130 Nigerians have registered for voluntary evacuation flights from South Africa as the Nigerian government intensifies efforts to protect its citizens amid renewed xenophobic attacks and anti-foreigner protests.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this in a situation report on Sunday, noting that the evacuation plan is part of broader diplomatic and security measures coordinated with Nigerian missions in the country.

She explained that the move followed directives from Bola Tinubu, who ordered heightened 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, adding that arrangements are underway to collate details of Nigerians willing to return home through voluntary repatriation flights.

According to the minister, the number of evacuees is expected to rise as more Nigerians signal interest in returning due to growing safety concerns linked to the unrest.

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The latest development comes amid renewed anti-immigrant protests in major cities such as Pretoria and Johannesburg, where demonstrators have blamed foreign nationals for economic challenges, unemployment, and crime. Authorities say the unrest has triggered widespread fear among Nigerians, with reports of business disruptions, threats, and heightened insecurity in affected areas. Some Nigerians have reportedly shut down shops and limited movement to avoid potential attacks. The Nigerian government noted that disturbing images circulating online—depicting violence, inflammatory rhetoric, and anti-migrant sentiments—have drawn global condemnation and raised alarm within the international community.

Despite reports that protests held between April 27 and 29 were largely peaceful under heavy police presence, the minister confirmed two separate deaths involving Nigerians, both allegedly linked to encounters with security personnel. She described the incidents as “utterly condemnable and unacceptable,” stressing that Nigeria is demanding justice while closely monitoring ongoing investigations. In response, Nigeria has summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, as diplomatic engagements intensify to prevent further escalation and ensure accountability.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu warned that another wave of demonstrations is expected between May 4 and 8, prompting increased coordination between Nigerian authorities and South African security agencies. She emphasised that Nigerian diplomatic missions are working closely with host authorities to safeguard citizens while evacuation preparations continue. The minister also highlighted Nigeria’s historical role in supporting South Africa’s liberation struggle, calling for stronger measures to end recurring xenophobic violence, noting that such incidents often resurface during politically sensitive periods.

Nigeria recently signed a bilateral agreement with South Africa focused on early warning systems to protect citizens of both countries during crises. As evacuation plans progress, officials say the government remains committed to ensuring the safety of Nigerians—whether they choose to stay or return home. With tensions still high, more Nigerians are expected to register for evacuation as uncertainty continues to grow.