LAGOS – Nigeria is preparing arrangements to assist its citizens in South Africa who wish to return home following renewed reports of xenophobic violence and anti-immigrant protests, according to official and diplomatic sources.
Reports indicate that at least 130 Nigerians have already registered for voluntary repatriation as concerns grow over safety in affected areas, particularly in major urban centres such as Johannesburg and Durban.
The development comes amid a wider wave of anti-foreigner sentiment and unrest in South Africa, where migrants from across Africa have increasingly faced harassment, attacks, and intimidation linked to unemployment and economic pressures.
Nigerian authorities have urged calm while coordinating with South African officials to ensure the protection of citizens and support those choosing to return. Diplomatic discussions between the two countries are ongoing as regional governments call for stronger action against xenophobic violence.
The situation has also prompted other African nations, including Ghana and Kenya, to issue travel warnings or begin voluntary repatriation programmes for their nationals.
