NiDCOM Urges Nigerians in South Africa to Shut Businesses as Xenophobic Violence Escalates
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The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission has issued an urgent advisory to Nigerians living in South Africa, urging them to temporarily shut down their businesses and prioritise personal safety amid a surge in xenophobic unrest.
The warning follows a wave of anti-foreigner protests that have spread across several cities, with demonstrators targeting shops owned by non-nationals and demanding their removal from local communities. The situation has raised serious concerns among migrant populations who depend heavily on small-scale enterprises for their livelihood.
Recent incidents circulating online show foreign traders being harassed and ordered to vacate their businesses. These developments have intensified fears among Nigerians and other African nationals, particularly those operating in informal retail sectors.
According to information relayed by Nigerian diplomatic officials, protests in areas such as East London, Cape Town, Durban, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal have escalated into violence. Reports indicate cases of looting, destruction of property, and physical attacks on foreign nationals.
Security alerts also suggest that further demonstrations are being planned in Gauteng province in the coming days, increasing the risk of more coordinated attacks against immigrant communities.
In response, NiDCOM has strongly advised Nigerians to avoid confrontations, stay away from protest zones, and closely monitor local news updates. Business owners have been specifically urged to remain closed during high-risk periods, particularly around public holidays when tensions tend to rise.
The commission confirmed that the Nigerian mission in Johannesburg remains operational and is actively engaging with local law enforcement authorities to ensure the protection of Nigerian citizens.
Diplomatic efforts are also underway, with Nigerian officials holding discussions with their South African counterparts to address the growing crisis and seek measures to safeguard foreign nationals.
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