The discussion took place on Thursday, May 7, 2026, between Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and South Africa’s Foreign Minister, Ronald Lamola, following an anti migrant protest in Durban on May 6. Security forces prevented the protest from turning violent.
Lamola said South Africa is worried about Nigeria’s plan to bring home Nigerians who want to leave. Odumegwu-Ojukwu said her government cannot ignore the harassment and killings of Nigerians and that evacuating those who wish to return is now a priority.
She also called on South Africa’s police and courts to treat attacks on Nigerians more seriously and to ensure those responsible face immediate action. Although Tuesday’s protest remained calm, the Nigerian Mission has advised citizens to close shops and stay indoors for safety.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu further condemned the harsh language and actions of some South African anti-foreigner groups, warning that it endangers Nigerians and could also affect South African interests in Nigeria. She praised Nigerians in South Africa for showing restraint during the crisis.
She also raised the issue of bullying against Nigerian children and children of mixed Nigerian-South African heritage, known as “Sougerians,” in schools. She said some of these children are being told to “go back to their country,” which she described as traumatic and unacceptable. Lamola assured her that South Africa is taking steps through education authorities to address the problem.
Both ministers said they are committed to working together to ease tensions. Odumegwu-Ojukwu acknowledged that President Cyril Ramaphosa and other South African leaders have condemned the violence, but said fears remain high among Nigerians both at home and in South Africa
She added that the hostility seems mainly directed at African migrants, sparking debate over whether it should be called “Afriphobia” rather than xenophobia.
At the same time, Nigeria’s Senate and House of Representatives are setting up a joint committee to engage with South Africa’s parliament and help resolve the crisis.