At least 130 Nigerian citizens in South Africa have requested repatriation following protests targeting foreign nationals, Nigeria’s Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has said.
The minister noted that the group is the first to apply under a newly launched government scheme aimed at assisting citizens who wish to return home, amid concerns that tensions in South Africa could escalate.
The requests come after protesters staged rallies in Pretoria and Johannesburg last week, calling for stricter measures against illegal immigration.
Demonstrators argued that undocumented foreign nationals were putting pressure on jobs, security, and public services.
However, migrant rights campaigners have pushed back against the claims, warning that foreigners are often unfairly blamed for the country’s economic challenges.
South African authorities last month pledged action against those carrying out xenophobic attacks, following complaints from countries including Ghana that their nationals had experienced violence and discrimination.
With more protests planned for May 4 and May 8, the Nigerian government said it would continue to closely monitor developments.
The minister added that Nigeria had already summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner in Abuja over the situation, while diplomatic missions in South Africa were working with local authorities to minimise risks to Nigerian citizens.
