Xenophobia: FG Threatens AU Action Against South Africa

The Federal Government has threatened to take the issue of recurring xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa to the African Union, as part of efforts to secure a lasting solution to the problem.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, disclosed this during an appearance on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme, where he expressed concern over the repeated incidents of violence and harassment targeting migrants in South Africa.

According to the minister, the Federal Government is committed to ensuring that Nigerians living and working in South Africa are protected from attacks and discriminatory treatment.

Enikanolaiye said the growing trend of anti-migrant violence poses a threat to African unity and undermines the spirit of brotherhood and cooperation that should exist among countries on the continent.

He stressed that African leaders and institutions must do more to safeguard the lives and property of residents, regardless of their nationality.

The minister also condemned reports of individuals allegedly encouraging hostility and violence against foreign nationals, describing such actions as unacceptable.

“When you have thug leaders literally encouraging violence against other nationalities, that is totally unacceptable. We will be reminding them of their responsibility in this regard,” he said.

He noted that the Nigerian government intends to engage South African authorities at various levels to ensure that Nigerians are not subjected to harassment and attacks in the future.

According to him, diplomatic efforts will involve government officials, senior political leaders, and direct engagements aimed at securing stronger protection for Nigerian citizens residing in South Africa.

Enikanolaiye explained that while bilateral discussions would continue, the government is also considering taking the matter before the African Union to seek a broader continental response.

He argued that xenophobia is no longer just a challenge for individual countries but has become an African issue that requires collective action.

The minister said Nigeria believes a coordinated approach through continental institutions could help address the root causes of xenophobic violence and strengthen protections for migrants across Africa.

The latest development comes amid renewed concerns over the safety of Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa following reports of fresh xenophobic incidents that have sparked outrage and calls for stronger diplomatic intervention.

The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to defending the rights and welfare of Nigerians wherever they reside.