Relations between Nigeria and South Africa have come under renewed strain following a wave of anti-immigration protests in South Africa that have led to attacks on foreign nationals, including Nigerians.
The Nigerian government has accused South African authorities of failing to adequately protect migrants and has begun repatriating hundreds of its citizens.
The latest tensions were triggered by demonstrations across cities such as Johannesburg, Pretoria and Durban, where protesters demanded stricter action against undocumented migrants.
Many South Africans argue that illegal immigration contributes to unemployment, crime and pressure on public services. South Africa hosts millions of foreign nationals from across Africa, both documented and undocumented.
Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has strongly criticised South Africa’s response, saying Nigerians are facing harassment, violence and discrimination regardless of their legal status.
She pointed to the deaths of two Nigerian men during the recent unrest and claimed that businesses owned by Nigerians have been looted while authorities failed to intervene effectively.
The minister also expressed disappointment that South Africa has not shown greater appreciation for Nigeria’s historical support during the anti-apartheid struggle.
She warned that retaliatory measures against South Africa are being considered, although no specific actions have been announced.
In response to growing fears among migrants, Nigeria has begun evacuating citizens who wish to return home. The number of people seeking repatriation has continued to rise.
Nigerian authorities have, however, urged citizens not to retaliate against South African businesses or nationals living in Nigeria.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa recently addressed the nation and announced tougher measures to deal with irregular migration.
These include prison sentences for employers who knowingly hire undocumented workers, specialised courts to speed up deportation cases and a new biometric registration system.
Ramaphosa acknowledged public concerns about illegal immigration but cautioned against blaming migrants for all of South Africa’s economic difficulties.
He stressed that immigration enforcement is the responsibility of the state and warned citizens against taking the law into their own hands.
Analysts say rising unemployment, poverty and inequality have fuelled resentment towards foreigners. Activist groups such as Operation Dudula and March and March have amplified anti-immigration sentiment by campaigning for the removal of undocumented migrants.
Although these groups deny being xenophobic, rights organisations report that both documented and undocumented foreigners have been targeted.
The current crisis has affected more than just Nigerians. Ghana has repatriated more than 1,000 citizens, while Mozambique has brought home hundreds of its nationals after several deaths were linked to the violence.
Social media campaigns have also circulated unofficial calls for all undocumented migrants to leave South Africa by June 30, although the government has not issued any such deadline.
This is not the first time xenophobic violence has strained relations between South Africa and other African countries. Similar attacks occurred in 2008, 2015 and 2019, resulting in deaths, destruction of property and diplomatic disputes. Nigerian-owned businesses were among those targeted during previous outbreaks, prompting strong protests from Abuja.
As tensions continue, both governments face pressure to protect lives, maintain diplomatic relations and address the economic and social issues driving anti-immigration sentiment.