Xenophobic Attacks: FG Advises Nigerians in South Africa to Close Businesses

Xenophobic Attacks: FG Advises Nigerians in South Africa to Close Businesses

The Federal Government of Nigeria has advised Nigerian nationals operating businesses in South Africa to temporarily suspend operations following a fresh wave of xenophobic violence, protests, and targeted attacks on foreign-owned shops across several parts of the country.

The advisory was issued through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) after reports confirmed rising tensions, looting, and destruction of properties belonging to foreign nationals in multiple South African cities.

NiDCOM said the directive followed an official security circular from the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, which warned of escalating unrest in areas including East London, Cape Town, Durban, Gauteng Province, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal. According to the circular, recent protests in these regions have degenerated into violent confrontations, resulting in injuries and widespread vandalisation of foreign-owned businesses in South Africa. Intelligence reports also indicated that additional protests were planned between April 27 and 29, 2026, raising concerns over possible escalation of violence during the period.

Speaking on the development, NiDCOM spokesperson Abdur-Rahman Balogun said the advisory to shut down businesses is a precautionary step aimed at safeguarding Nigerians amid rising insecurity. He urged Nigerian nationals to remain law-abiding, avoid confrontation, and comply with local laws while the situation is being monitored. Balogun stressed that the directive is temporary and designed strictly to protect lives and property during the period of unrest.

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NiDCOM clarified that there is currently no evacuation plan for Nigerians living in South Africa, noting that such action would only be considered if the situation worsens significantly. The commission added that Nigerian diplomatic missions remain active and are working closely with South African authorities and police to ensure the safety of citizens. Officials also confirmed that diplomatic engagement is ongoing between Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and South African counterparts over the rising tensions.

The President-General of Nigerians in South Africa, Smart Nwobi, expressed concern over what he described as increasing hostility toward migrants, especially during protests linked to unemployment and economic hardship. He urged the Nigerian government to intensify diplomatic intervention and ensure stronger protection for citizens abroad. Community leaders have also advised Nigerians to avoid protest hotspots, remain indoors where necessary, and prioritise personal safety until tensions subside.

South Africa has experienced repeated incidents of xenophobic attacks, often triggered by socio-economic grievances such as unemployment and competition for informal trade. Foreign nationals, including Nigerians, have frequently been targeted in incidents involving shop looting, property destruction, harassment, and physical assaults.

Videos circulating on social media show confrontations between local residents and foreign nationals, with some individuals demanding that migrants leave South Africa. In several cases, people were reportedly questioned over their immigration status, while others were harassed or attacked during chaotic protest scenes. Authorities have yet to issue a comprehensive nationwide response, although increased police deployment has been reported in affected areas.

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, is reportedly engaging South African authorities to address the situation and ensure the protection of Nigerian citizens. The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg continues to coordinate with local security agencies to monitor developments and provide updates to affected nationals.

Xenophobic Attacks: FG Advises Nigerians in South Africa to Close Businesses