Nigeria's imports from South Africa rise despite xenophobic tensions
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Nigeria's imports from South Africa increased by 23.83 percent to N155.26bn in the first quarter of 2026, even as diplomatic tensions escalated due to xenophobic attacks on Nigerians. This figure is up from N125.38bn in the same period of 2025. The increase in trade occurred amidst worsening relations between Abuja and Pretoria, which led the Federal Government to evacuate affected citizens and consider diplomatic measures. South Africa remained a major import source for Nigeria, with total imports reaching N535.29bn in 2025. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, expressed dissatisfaction with South Africa's response to the attacks, stating that the Federal Government was considering retaliatory diplomatic measures. However, business stakeholders, including the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, cautioned against actions that could harm economic ties, emphasizing that extreme responses could undermine investor confidence and bilateral relations. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced measures to address irregular migration but urged citizens not to take law enforcement into their own hands. The rising trade figures indicate that economic relations have remained resilient despite recurring diplomatic disputes.
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