The Nigerian Federal Government, through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has issued an urgent warning to all Nigerian citizens residing in South Africa to exercise extreme caution and adhere strictly to safety advisories due to a surge in anti-foreigner protests that have turned violent. The advisory follows a circular issued by the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg on April 22, 2026, detailing that demonstrations in cities such as East London, Cape Town, Durban, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal have resulted in looting, destruction of property, and injuries.

Intelligence reports indicate that further protests are scheduled to take place in Gauteng Province between April 27 and April 29, 2026. These demonstrations are reportedly aimed at pressuring the South African government regarding the presence of foreign nationals.

NiDCOM has strongly advised Nigerians to avoid engaging with protest groups, steer clear of confrontations, and closely monitor local media for updates on the security situation. The commission emphasized the importance of remaining law-abiding at all times.

Nigerian business owners have been specifically cautioned to take preventive measures, including shutting down operations on Freedom Day, April 27, and potentially extending closures through April 28 and 29. This recommendation is due to foreign-owned businesses often being targets during such unrest.

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, is actively engaging with her South African counterpart to address the safety and security concerns of Nigerians in the country.

South Africa has a history of xenophobic violence, with significant outbreaks recorded in 2008, 2015, and 2019, often targeting migrants from other African countries and resulting in deaths, injuries, and displacement.

The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg remains operational and is coordinating with South African security agencies to ensure the protection of Nigerian nationals.