Nigeria Starts Evacuation Plans, Calls South Africa Envoy Over Xenophobia Tension

The Nigerian government has started plans to bring home citizens who want to leave South Africa. This comes after recent protests against foreigners caused rising tension in some parts of the country.

Officials say about 130 Nigerians have already signed up for the voluntary return through the Nigerian office in South Africa. More people are expected to join as community groups help with the process. The government says protecting its people is the main priority.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been told about the situation. He asked that things be watched closely and told South African leaders to keep the peace and stop the problem from getting worse.

Because of this, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has asked South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to come for a meeting in Abuja on May 4, 2026. The meeting will talk about recent events and how they affect the relationship between both countries.

In a statement, ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa said the talks will cover the protests and reports of attacks on Nigerians and their businesses in South Africa. He added that Nigeria is committed to keeping its citizens safe abroad and is asking everyone to stay calm.

Between April 27 and 29, protests took place in Pretoria and Johannesburg. They were mostly peaceful, and police were present to stop any violence. But tension is still high. There have been reports of hate speech and some attacks on foreigners.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and other leaders have spoken against the violence, killings, and damage to property. They said they do not support attacks on foreigners.

Even with these promises, two Nigerians have died recently in separate incidents with security officers. Amamiro Chidiebere Emmanuel died after an encounter with soldiers in Port Elizabeth. Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew was found dead after reported contact with metro police in Pretoria. Nigerian officials have condemned the deaths and are asking for justice.

Nigerian officials are still talking with South African authorities to reduce tension and protect foreigners. This is important because more protests are expected between May 4 and 8.

Nigeria also reminded South Africa of its past support during South Africa’s fight for freedom. It said both countries should respect that history and work together.

Both nations plan to use an existing agreement on early warning to handle threats and protect their citizens when tension is high.