Nigeria has summoned South Africa’s acting High Commissioner following a series of recent attacks on foreign nationals in the southern African country. According to a statement from Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, officials will formally express “profound concern” during a meeting scheduled for Monday, warning that the incidents could strain bilateral relations.
The discussions are expected to address recent demonstrations by anti-immigrant groups, as well as documented cases involving the mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and attacks on their businesses. Local media reports indicate that at least two Nigerians and four Ethiopians have been killed in recent weeks, alongside assaults targeting other African nationals.
As Africa’s most industrialised economy, South Africa has long attracted migrants from across the continent seeking employment opportunities. However, tensions have escalated amid growing anti-immigrant sentiment. Groups involved in protests have reportedly stopped individuals near public facilities such as hospitals and schools, demanding proof of legal status.
During a recent march in Pretoria, organisers urged foreign-owned businesses to close amid fears of potential violence. Some affected migrants have expressed alarm, describing the situation as both unsafe and contrary to the spirit of African solidarity.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the attacks while also urging foreign nationals to comply with local laws. In his Freedom Day address—commemorating the country’s first democratic elections in 1994—he highlighted the historical support provided by other African nations during the struggle against apartheid.
Despite this, some South Africans continue to accuse undocumented migrants of taking jobs and contributing to criminal activity, particularly drug trafficking. These perceptions have contributed to the resurgence of anti-immigrant mobilisation.
Diplomatic tensions have also surfaced elsewhere. Last month, Ghana summoned South Africa’s top envoy after a widely circulated video showed a Ghanaian man being challenged to produce immigration documents.
South Africa is estimated to host approximately 2.4 million migrants—just under 4% of its population—though unofficial figures are believed to be higher. The majority originate from neighbouring countries such as Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, with a smaller proportion coming from Nigeria.
