Nigerians in South Africa advised to take precautions amid anti-foreigner protests
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission NiDCOM has issued a safety alert to Nigerians residing in South Africa, urging them to adhere to advisories from the Nigerian Consulate General following an increase in anti-foreigner protests. A circular from the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, dated April 22, 2026, reported violent demonstrations in East London, Cape Town, Durban, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal, which included looting, property damage, and injuries. NiDCOM, through its Head of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, stated that intelligence indicates further protests are planned in Gauteng Province from April 27 to 29, 2026. These demonstrations aim to pressure the South African government regarding the presence of foreign nationals. NiDCOM advises Nigerian citizens to avoid confrontation with protesters, refrain from engaging with demonstration groups, and monitor local media for safety updates, while also urging them to remain law-abiding. Nigerian business owners are advised to temporarily close their shops on Freedom Day, April 27, and consider remaining closed on April 28 and 29, as foreign-owned businesses are often targeted during unrest. NiDCOM reiterated its support for Consul-General, Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, confirming the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg is operational and collaborating with South African police to ensure the safety of Nigerian nationals. The commission also noted that the Minister of State for For
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