The Federal Government has called on Nigerians living in South Africa who fear for their safety to take advantage of its final evacuation flights, warning that there are no indications that the security situation is improving amid renewed xenophobic attacks that have reportedly claimed the lives of two Nigerian citizens.
The appeal was made by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, in a statement issued on Monday, in which she expressed deep concern over the continued violence targeting migrants in parts of South Africa.
According to the minister, the Nigerian government remains committed to protecting its citizens abroad and is closely monitoring developments following reports of renewed attacks against foreign nationals.
“Nigeria remains concerned about the safety of its citizens in South Africa as a result of the ongoing xenophobic protests and attacks on migrants, and even more so following the deaths of two Nigerians, Musa Yunana Joe and Charles Iroegbu during these unfortunate events,” she said.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu described the reported deaths of Musa Yunana Joe and Charles Iroegbu as tragic and extended the Federal Government’s condolences to their families, assuring them that every effort was being made to seek justice and accountability.
She explained that Nigeria had formally demanded decisive action from the South African authorities to halt the attacks, protect foreign nationals residing in the country and ensure that those responsible for acts of violence are identified and prosecuted.
The minister stressed that every sovereign nation has a responsibility to safeguard all persons residing within its territory, irrespective of their nationality or immigration status.
She noted that the Nigerian government has remained in close contact with South African officials through diplomatic channels and continues to engage relevant authorities to ensure the safety and welfare of Nigerian citizens.
While acknowledging the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and South Africa, Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasized that such ties must be underpinned by mutual respect, the rule of law and the protection of human rights.
She urged Nigerians currently residing in areas affected by the unrest to remain vigilant, avoid locations where violence or protests are taking place and comply with security advisories issued by both Nigerian diplomatic missions and local authorities.
The minister also encouraged those who believe they are at immediate risk to take advantage of the government’s final evacuation flights, explaining that the decision was informed by continued assessments indicating that the security situation remains unstable.
According to her, available intelligence and reports from Nigerian diplomatic missions suggest that there are no clear signs of an immediate improvement in the situation, making voluntary evacuation a prudent option for vulnerable citizens.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu appealed to Nigerians wishing to return home to register promptly with the Nigerian High Commission and other designated officials to facilitate their inclusion in the evacuation arrangements.
She assured prospective evacuees that the Federal Government would continue to provide the necessary support to ensure a safe and orderly return to Nigeria.
The minister reiterated that the welfare of Nigerians abroad remains a key priority of the administration, adding that government agencies are working together to respond to the evolving situation.
She also called on community leaders and Nigerian associations in South Africa to remain united, support one another and maintain regular communication with diplomatic officials throughout the period of uncertainty.
Xenophobic violence has periodically affected South Africa over the years, with migrants from several African countries often becoming targets during episodes of unrest. Such incidents have frequently strained diplomatic relations and prompted calls for stronger measures to protect foreign nationals.
Successive Nigerian governments have repeatedly condemned attacks on their citizens in South Africa and have consistently urged authorities in the country to address the root causes of xenophobic violence while ensuring justice for victims.
The latest advisory underscores the seriousness with which the Federal Government views the current situation, particularly following the reported deaths of two Nigerians.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu reaffirmed that Nigeria would continue to engage South African authorities at the highest diplomatic levels until adequate measures are taken to guarantee the safety of Nigerians and other migrants living in the country.
She urged citizens to remain calm but cautious, stressing that preserving lives remains the government’s foremost concern.
The minister concluded by assuring Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue to monitor developments closely, provide consular assistance where necessary and pursue all appropriate diplomatic channels to protect the rights, dignity and security of its citizens in South Africa.
