No fewer than 130 Nigerians living in South Africa have registered for voluntary repatriation following growing anxiety over recent anti-foreigner protests and xenophobic tensions in parts of the country.
The Federal Government disclosed this in a situation report issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, saying the number of Nigerians seeking to return home was expected to rise as consultations continue with Nigerian associations and community leaders in South Africa.
The report, signed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, stated that arrangements were already underway to facilitate voluntary evacuation flights for affected Nigerians.
According to the ministry, President Bola Tinubu has directed relevant authorities to closely monitor the situation and prioritise the safety of Nigerian citizens living in South Africa.
The development follows a series of anti-migration protests held in Pretoria and Johannesburg between April 27 and 29, 2026, which heightened fears among foreign nationals, including Nigerians.
Although no Nigerian was reported killed or injured during the demonstrations, the ministry confirmed the deaths of two Nigerian citizens in separate incidents allegedly involving South African security personnel.
One of the victims, Amamiro Chidiebere Emmanuel, reportedly died on April 25 after sustaining injuries from an alleged assault by members of the South African National Defence Force in Port Elizabeth.
Another Nigerian, Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew, was said to have died following an alleged encounter with officers of the Tshwane Metro Police, with his body later found at the Pretoria Central Mortuary.
The Nigerian government described the incidents as unacceptable and said its diplomatic mission in South Africa was pursuing justice through ongoing investigations.
As tensions continue to rise, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the Nigerian High Commission and Consulate in South Africa remain in constant contact with South African authorities to minimise threats to Nigerians living in the country.
The ministry also revealed that another round of demonstrations has been scheduled between May 4 and May 8, prompting renewed concerns over the safety of migrants and foreign-owned businesses.
It added that Nigeria had summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner over the situation while urging South African authorities to take stronger measures against xenophobic violence and hate speech.
The Federal Government further recalled Nigeria’s historic support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle, stressing that Nigerian citizens and businesses should not continue to face repeated attacks and intimidation.
The statement noted that xenophobic tensions in South Africa often intensify ahead of elections, with anti-foreigner groups exploiting migration issues for political advantage.
Nigeria, however, reaffirmed its commitment to continued engagement with South Africa to address the recurring crisis and protect citizens of both countries through existing bilateral agreements and early warning mechanisms.
