Nigeria is gearing up to bring home about 130 of its nationals from South Africa after a spike in xenophobic attacks left many fearing for their safety. 🌏😟
Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu‑Ojukwu announced on Sunday that the country’s mission in South Africa has opened a voluntary repatriation registration, and the numbers are expected to climb as anxiety grows. "Nigerian lives and businesses in South Africa must not continue to be put at risk," she said, pointing to two recent deaths of Nigerians involving South African security forces.
The crisis has sparked diplomatic talks, with South Africa’s Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola promising to beef up cooperation to tackle the root causes of irregular migration. “We reflected on the challenges posed by irregular migration and committed to working to address the root causes,” Lamola said. Meanwhile, acting police minister Firoz Cachalia warned that any acts of xenophobia, looting or intimidation will be dealt with firmly.
South Africa, home to roughly three million foreigners (about 5.1 % of the population), has seen repeated anti‑immigrant riots, especially as local elections loom in November. The fresh wave of demonstrations expected between May 4‑8 has pushed both governments into high‑level coordination mode.
So what does this mean for young people watching the headlines? It’s a reminder of how quickly safety concerns can turn a dream of working abroad into a scramble for home. 🇸🇦➡️🇳🇬
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Nigeria to evacuate 130 nationals from South Africa after attacks
cgtn.com
