At least 130 Nigerians in South Africa have applied to a new government repatriation programme after protests targeting foreign nationals in Pretoria and Johannesburg, Nigeria’s foreign minister said. The applicants were the first to register amid fears confrontations could escalate. Abuja has summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner and its diplomatic missions are coordinating with local authorities to protect Nigerians while monitoring planned demonstrations.
130 Nigerians Request Emergency Repatriation After Anti-Immigrant Protests in South Africa
Members of civil society groups and human rights organisations hold placards as they take part in a march calling for stronger government action against illegal immigration in Pretoria, South Africa, April 28, 2026. REUTERS/Ihsaan Haffejee/File Photo
ABUJA, May 4 — At least 130 Nigerian nationals in South Africa have applied to be flown home under a new repatriation programme launched by Nigeria’s government, Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu said on Sunday. The move follows recent protests in South Africa targeting foreign nationals and concerns that clashes could escalate.
Government Response and Repatriation Scheme
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said those 130 people were the first to register for the scheme, which was introduced as Abuja stepped up efforts to protect its citizens abroad. Nigerian diplomatic missions in South Africa are working with local authorities to assess risks and support nationals who feel threatened.
Members of civil society groups and human rights organisations take part in a march calling for stronger government action against illegal immigration in Pretoria, South Africa, April 28, 2026. REUTERS/Ihsaan Haffejee/File Photo
Protests and Rising Tensions
Demonstrations were held last week in Pretoria and Johannesburg calling for tougher measures on illegal immigration. Protesters argued that undocumented migrants put pressure on jobs, public services and security. Migrant-rights campaigners counter that foreigners have long been scapegoated for broader economic problems in South Africa, warning that such rhetoric can inflame xenophobic sentiment.
South African authorities last month pledged to crack down on xenophobic attacks after reports that Ghanaian and other African nationals faced violence and discrimination.
More demonstrations were scheduled for May 4 and May 8, and Nigeria said it would monitor developments closely. Abuja has summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner and urged calm while coordinating protective measures through its diplomatic missions.
Context: The situation highlights wider regional concerns about migrant safety and the diplomatic responses countries adopt when citizens abroad face unrest. Nigerian officials say they are prioritising the welfare and safe return of any nationals who request repatriation.
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