The Federal Government of Nigeria has summoned the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa to Nigeria over recent protests and reported attacks targeting foreign nationals, including Nigerians.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nigeria disclosed in a statement on Saturday, signed by its spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, that the envoy has been invited for a meeting scheduled for May 4, 2026, at its headquarters in Abuja.
According to the ministry, the meeting is intended to formally convey Nigeria’s “profound concern” over developments in South Africa that could affect the longstanding bilateral relations between both countries.
It said discussions would focus on ongoing demonstrations by various groups in South Africa, as well as reported cases of mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and attacks on their businesses.
The ministry also acknowledged growing public outrage in Nigeria over the incidents but urged citizens to remain calm, assuring that the government is committed to protecting Nigerians living abroad.
“The Ministry is aware of the growing discontent among Nigerians concerning the treatment of their nationals in South Africa. Nevertheless, it implores the Nigerian public to remain calm and reiterates the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of Nigerian citizens residing in South Africa,” the statement said.
