Nigeria, South Africa Hold Talks Over Anti-Migrant Violence

Senior officials from Nigeria and South Africa met in Abuja on Monday to discuss growing anti-migrant violence in South Africa, as both governments sought to address concerns over the safety of foreign nationals while maintaining diplomatic relations.

The meeting brought together delegations from both countries, who described their nations as long-standing partners and acknowledged Nigeria’s support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle. The discussions focused on recent attacks targeting foreign nationals and the broader impact of anti-migrant sentiment.

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, condemned the attacks on Nigerians and other African migrants, saying both documented and undocumented foreign nationals had been affected. He also questioned the response of South African authorities, expressing concern over reports that security agencies had failed to intervene in some incidents.

According to South African police, at least four foreign nationals have been killed in violence linked to anti-migrant protests. Governments repatriating their citizens have, however, indicated that the number of deaths may be higher. More than 160,000 foreign nationals have reportedly left South Africa since the unrest intensified, including about 1,500 Nigerians.

South African International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola reiterated Pretoria’s opposition to xenophobia, racism and all forms of discrimination. He said President Cyril Ramaphosa’s administration remained committed to protecting everyone living in the country while continuing to enforce immigration laws through legal processes.

The two delegations concluded their discussions without announcing any new agreements. Both governments said they would continue diplomatic engagement on issues affecting the welfare and protection of African migrants.

SOURCE: AFP