Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to a meeting in Abuja on Monday, May 4, 2026, over growing concerns about attacks on Nigerian citizens and their businesses in South Africa.
In a statement on Friday, the ministry said the meeting at its headquarters would formally convey the Nigerian government’s “profound concern” about recent events that could strain relations between the two countries.
The discussions are expected to focus on ongoing protests by various groups in South Africa and documented cases of mistreatment and attacks targeting Nigerians.
The ministry noted that it was aware of rising discontent among Nigerians regarding the treatment of their nationals but urged the public to remain calm.
“The Ministry 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.
The invitation comes amid renewed tensions between both countries, with reports of xenophobic incidents affecting Nigerian traders and residents in parts of South Africa.
Nigeria has repeatedly called for the protection of its citizens abroad and for diplomatic resolution of such disputes.
The meeting will be led by officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, according to spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
