The Nigerian government has expressed concern over renewed attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, setting out key demands to address the situation.

The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, disclosed this in a statement released on April 29, 2026.

She noted that for several weeks, there has been an increase in xenophobic violence targeting Black foreigners in South Africa, including Nigerians.

In response, the Nigerian government, through NIDCOM, has called for four key actions from South African authorities: improved security in affected communities, prompt prosecution of perpetrators, stronger bilateral engagement between Nigeria and South Africa, and a public condemnation of xenophobic attacks.

NIDCOM urged the South African government to protect Nigerians and other Black immigrants, expressing serious concern over what it described as escalating persecution in parts of the country.

Dabiri-Erewa said expectations that tensions would ease have not been met.

“While many expected a de-escalation of tensions following earlier engagements between both governments, the situation on the ground is deteriorating,” she noted.

The commission further urged South African authorities to take urgent and visible action to guarantee the safety of all foreign nationals, in line with international obligations and African Union human rights protocols.

“We state clearly that NIDCOM rejects the profiling and generalisation of all Nigerians. Crime has no nationality,” she noted.

NIDCOM outlined four key demands it said are necessary to curb the attacks and restore confidence among affected communities.

First, the commission called for an immediate strengthening of security in areas where Nigerians reside and conduct business, urging authorities to deploy additional police personnel and maintain sustained patrols to prevent further attacks.

Second, it demanded accountability, insisting that those responsible for attacks, looting, and harassment be promptly arrested, investigated, and prosecuted in order to end the culture of impunity.

Third, NIDCOM advocated for structured dialogue, proposing a coordinated safety forum involving Nigerian and South African officials, law enforcement agencies, and community representatives to address rising tensions and improve cooperation.

Fourth, the commission stressed the need for non-discrimination, urging South African authorities to make clear public statements condemning xenophobia and to actively discourage the stereotyping and targeting of Nigerians and other foreign nationals.

“We urge all Nigerians in South Africa to remain law-abiding, avoid high-risk areas after dark,” the statement added.

Xenophobic violence in South Africa is not a new development, having recurred over the years and often affecting African migrants, including Nigerians.