Published：May 3, 10:16Last updated：May 13, 08:24

Nigeria Repatriates Citizens Amid South Africa Xenophobia

May. 3, 2026 10:16

Nigeria summoned South Africa's acting High Commissioner to address attacks on Nigerian citizens and businesses in South Africa. The meeting follows recent anti-immigrant marches and violence, including fatalities among Nigerians and Ethiopians. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the attacks but urged foreigners to respect local laws. The issue has strained relations between the two nations. The report was published on May 3, 2026.

Summarized

10News

7Media

May. 7, 2026 12:44

Ghana has facilitated the safe return of a citizen targeted in a viral video amid reports of xenophobic attacks in South Africa. African nations are advising their citizens to stay indoors for safety. The incident underscores ongoing tensions and violence against foreigners in the region.

May. 13, 2026 08:24

Ghana plans to evacuate 300 distressed citizens from South Africa due to anti-immigrant protests. The foreign minister confirmed the evacuation, with affected individuals registered at the embassy in Pretoria. The move follows rising tensions targeting foreign nationals in South Africa.

Nigeria has escalated its response to xenophobic attacks in South Africa by summoning the acting High Commissioner and initiating the repatriation of 130 citizens. The diplomatic move follows weeks of anti-immigrant violence targeting Nigerians and other African nationals, including fatal incidents during protests in April 2026. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the attacks while urging foreign nationals to comply with local laws. BBC News+2

🇳🇬 Diplomatic Tensions Rise

Nigeria's foreign ministry lodged formal protests through multiple channels, including summoning South Africa's top diplomat in Abuja. This mirrors actions taken by Ghana, which also reported attacks on its citizens. The situation has strained historically complex relations between Africa's largest economies, with Nigeria demanding concrete protection measures for its nationals. Toronto Star+2

✈️ Mass Repatriation Underway

The Nigerian government activated emergency evacuation procedures on May 4, 2026, prioritizing vulnerable citizens. This marks at least the third such operation since 2019, with evacuees being processed through Lagos' international airport. Ghana announced similar plans to repatriate 300 citizens from Pretoria, indicating broader regional concern over migrant safety. Radio France Internationale+2

🌍 Continental Backlash Grows

Multiple African governments have issued travel advisories and called for restraint. The African Union remains under pressure to mediate as attacks threaten regional integration efforts. Businesses owned by Nigerian migrants report significant losses, with some establishments being completely destroyed during the unrest. The Independent+2

🛡️ Security Measures Debated

South African authorities deployed additional police units to hotspot areas, but critics argue enforcement remains inadequate. The government faces mounting criticism for failing to curb recurring xenophobic violence, which has damaged the country's reputation as a continental leader. Civil society groups are organizing inter-community dialogues to address underlying tensions. BBC News+2

GhanaNigeriaPretoriaSouth AfricaCyril Ramaphosa