ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The National Association of Nigerian Students has called on the Federal Government to urgently intervene to safeguard Nigerian students in South Africa amid escalating xenophobic tensions.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its Vice President for External Affairs, Aneke Kenechukwu, the association expressed serious concern over what it described as a disturbing pattern of hostility and targeted attacks against foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians and other Africans.
The group warned that the situation poses a grave threat to lives and weakens the ideals of African unity and cooperation.
“Nigerian students in South Africa now live in fear and uncertainty.
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“As young ambassadors and future leaders of our nation, their protection must be treated as a national emergency,” the statement read.
NANS urged the Federal Government to take prompt diplomatic steps by engaging South African authorities to secure firm assurances on the safety of Nigerian citizens, especially students.
It also called for the activation of diplomatic channels to closely track developments and ensure that those responsible for xenophobic attacks are held accountable.
The association further requested immediate support for affected students, including the “provision of safe shelters, dedicated emergency hotlines, and financial assistance where necessary.”
Additionally, NANS recommended that the government establish a coordinated evacuation plan for Nigerian students willing to return home, noting that such a measure would reduce exposure to life-threatening risks.
“Diplomacy remains the most responsible path, but it must be proactive, firm, and result-oriented. Nigerian lives must not be left to bureaucratic delay,” the statement added.
The group also emphasised the need for collaboration between the government, NANS, Nigerian diplomatic missions, and international partners to ensure the safety of all Nigerian students.
“The time to act is now. Every delay endangers innocent lives,” the statement concluded.
Reports indicate that xenophobic protests have intensified in parts of South Africa, including Pretoria and other cities, where migrants have faced harassment, violence, and threats.
Some accounts suggest that protesters have targeted schools, attempting to block or remove children of foreign nationals from classrooms.
The unrest has reportedly led to fatalities, including two Nigerians, heightening concerns within the diaspora and prompting renewed calls for government action.
While Nigeria’s Acting Ambassador to South Africa has stated that the situation is under control, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged foreign nationals to respect local laws while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to human rights.