Nigeria has urged South Africa to take decisive action against violent attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals, insisting perpetrators must face justice.

Nigeria also stressed that foreign residents deserve equal protection under international law, regardless of where they live, and called for stronger safeguards against xenophobic violence.

Deputy foreign affairs minister Sola Enikanolaiye made the call during a high-level meeting in Abuja on Monday with South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola.

Mr Lamola visited Nigeria as special envoy of President Cyril Ramaphosa to deliver a message to President Bola Tinubu reaffirming the longstanding friendship between both countries.

The message highlighted the historic solidarity that helped South Africa overcome apartheid and strengthened bilateral relations.

Mr Enikanolaiye said Nigeria and South Africa had built enduring ties through shared struggles, recalling Nigeria’s support for the anti-apartheid movement and its role in establishing the African Union and the New Partnership for Africa’s Development.

He, however, expressed concern over recurring attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa, revealing that 98 Nigerians had been killed in mob and hate-related violence since 2022.

“Nigerians have continued to be among the principal victims of what we describe as Afrophobia. We will never support drug trafficking or any criminal conduct.

“However, anyone accused of committing an offence must be prosecuted in accordance with South Africa’s Constitution, the rule of law and international human rights obligations,” said Mr Enikanolaiye.

The minister said the inability of host authorities to protect foreign nationals raised serious concerns about public safety and the state’s responsibility to uphold justicea and warned that continued Afrophobic attacks threatened the shared aspirations and strategic partnership between Nigeria and South Africa.

Responding, Mr Lamola reaffirmed South Africa’s enduring friendship with Nigeria, describing the visit as an opportunity to strengthen the historic relationship forged during the liberation struggle.

He commended Nigeria for its unwavering support during South Africa’s fight against apartheid, saying South Africans remained deeply grateful for the sacrifices made to secure their freedom.

According to Mr Lamola, the South African government rejects xenophobia and every form of discrimination against people living in the country.

“President Ramaphosa has consistently spoken against xenophobia, racism, homophobia, violence and all forms of intolerance directed at anyone living within South Africa,” he said.

Mr Lamola added that South Africa remained committed to enforcing its immigration laws and combating crimes, including drug trafficking and cybercrime, while respecting the rule of law. He said managing migration required cooperation between African countries to promote safe, regular and orderly movement of people in line with African Union protocols.

(NAN)