NiDCOM Issues Fresh Alert as Anti-Foreigner Protests Escalate in South Africa
Oru Leonard
AThe Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has urged Nigerians residing in South Africa to exercise caution and strictly comply with safety advisories amid rising anti-foreigner unrest in parts of the country.
This follows an official circular issued by the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg (Ref No: CGJHB/AD/209/VOL I) dated April 22, 2026, which reported violent demonstrations in East London, Cape Town, Durban, and KwaZulu-Natal. The protests have reportedly resulted in looting, destruction of property, and multiple injuries.
According to intelligence contained in the consular advisory, further protests are expected in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29, with demonstrators planning to intensify pressure on the South African government over the presence of foreign nationals.
In response, NiDCOM has advised Nigerians to avoid confrontations, refrain from engaging with protest groups, and stay updated through credible local media for real-time security information. Citizens were also reminded to remain law-abiding at all times.
The Commission further warned Nigerian business owners to take precautionary measures, including closing operations on Freedom Day on April 27, and possibly extending closure through April 28 and 29, as foreign-owned businesses are often targets during such unrest.
While endorsing the position of the Consul-General, Ninikanwa O. Okey-Uche, NiDCOM noted that the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg remains fully operational and is working closely with South African law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of Nigerian nationals.
The statement also disclosed that the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, is engaging her South African counterpart on the situation.
The advisory underscores the Nigerian government’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad amid growing tensions.
