ABUJA, Nigeria: Nigeria’s Acting Ambassador to South Africa, Temitope Ajayi, stated on Monday, April 27, 2026, that Nigerian citizens are not under direct attack following recent anti-foreigner protests.
Okay News reports that Ajayi appeared on the Channels Television programme Morning Brief to confirm authorities from both nations are collaborating to ensure the safety of residents. “Let me first make the point that right now Nigerians are not under siege in South Africa. The situation is currently under control. The governments are working on it,” Ajayi said.
Protests and violence occurred recently in Durban, Cape Town, and East London, involving assaults, the looting of foreign-owned shops, and demands for immigrants to leave. “What we have seen is a kind of isolated tension, and that is why it calls for caution. But in terms of direct attack or direct siege on Nigerians, that is not taking place right now,” Ajayi said.
The ambassador noted the local government and police cautioned citizens against targeting foreigners. “There have been some concerns about foreigners, in terms of people targeting foreigners. But the government has come out to issue a statement on that, particularly the police commissioner, and cautioned people against targeting foreigners and xenophobic practices,” Ajayi said.
Speaking from Pretoria, the envoy stated the capital and Johannesburg remain stable. “For now, I am particularly in Pretoria right now, and the situation is relatively calm. Also in Johannesburg, it is calm,” Ajayi said.
The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, issued advisories urging citizens to exercise caution, remain indoors where necessary, and temporarily shut down businesses.
