By Gabriel Ameh
📍Abuja | Media360Impact Report
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has urged Nigerians residing in South Africa to exercise caution and strictly adhere to safety advisories amid rising anti-foreigner protests across the country.
This follows an official circular issued by the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg (Ref No: CGJHB/AD/209/VOL I) dated April 22, 2026, which reported violent demonstrations in cities including East London, Cape Town, Durban, and KwaZulu-Natal. The unrest has resulted in looting, destruction of property, and injuries.
According to the Consulate, further protests are expected in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29, 2026, as demonstrators intensify pressure on the South African government over the presence of foreign nationals.
In response, NiDCOM advised Nigerians to avoid any form of confrontation, refrain from engaging with protest groups, and stay updated through credible local media for real-time safety information. The Commission also urged citizens to remain law-abiding at all times.
Nigerian business owners were specifically cautioned to take preventive measures by closing their businesses on South Africa’s Freedom Day, April 27, and consider remaining closed through April 28 and 29, as foreign-owned businesses are often targeted during such unrest.
NiDCOM endorsed the position of the Consul-General, Ninikanwa O. Okey-Uche, noting that the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg remains fully operational and is working closely with South African security agencies to safeguard Nigerian nationals.
The Commission further disclosed that Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, is actively engaging with her South African counterpart to address the situation and ensure the safety of Nigerians.
NiDCOM reiterated its commitment to the welfare of Nigerians abroad and called for vigilance as the situation continues to evolve.
