South African Police Service (SAPS) officers watch as a worker closes the shutters of a shop while protestors pass by during a protest march against undocumented migrants organised by “March and March” in Johannesburg on April 29, 2026.
JOHANNESBURG - Nigeria is moving to repatriate citizens who want to leave South Africa voluntarily, amid rising tensions linked to anti-immigrant protests.
Nigeria’s Foreign Minister says about 130 individuals have already applied, as concerns mount over attacks, protests, and harassment of foreign-owned businesses.
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The West African nation’s government has also summoned South Africa's acting High Commissioner to Nigeria for talks in Abuja.
Officials say their priority remains the safety of citizens living in South Africa.
Meanwhile, the South African Government has rejected claims by Nigeria that South Africa is xenophobic.
Acting government spokesperson Nomonde Mnukwa affirmed that South Africa is a democratic country that is built on the rule of law, that embraces human dignity, and that protects the rights of individuals.