The National Association of Nigerian Students has called on the Federal Government to urgently step in to protect Nigerian students in South Africa following a surge in xenophobic tensions.
In a statement released on Wednesday by its Vice President for External Affairs, Aneke Kenechukwu, the association raised alarm over what it described as a “disturbing pattern of hostility and targeted attacks against foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians and other Africans.”
According to the group, the growing unrest endangers lives and weakens the ideals of African unity and cooperation.
“Nigerian students in South Africa now live in fear and uncertainty.
“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 immediately open diplomatic engagement with South African authorities to secure concrete assurances for the safety of Nigerians, especially students.
It also called for the activation of diplomatic channels to monitor the situation closely and ensure that perpetrators of xenophobic violence are held accountable.
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The student body further appealed for urgent support for affected students, including the “provision of safe shelters, dedicated emergency hotlines, and financial assistance where necessary.”
Additionally, NANS advised the government to put in place a “coordinated evacuation plan for Nigerian students willing to return home,” noting that such a measure could reduce exposure to life-threatening situations.
“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.
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The association also stressed the need for collaboration among the government, NANS, Nigerian diplomatic missions, and international partners to ensure the safety of all Nigerian students abroad.
“The time to act is now. Every delay endangers innocent lives,” the statement concluded.
Recent reports indicate that xenophobic protests have escalated in several parts of South Africa, including Pretoria and other cities, where migrants have reportedly faced harassment, violence, and intimidation.
There are also claims that some protesters have targeted schools, attempting to prevent children of foreign nationals from attending classes.
The unrest has already led to casualties, including the deaths of two Nigerians, sparking concern within the diaspora and renewed calls for swift government intervention.
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While Nigeria’s Acting Ambassador to South Africa has maintained that the situation is under control, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on foreign nationals to obey local laws, while reiterating his administration’s commitment to upholding human rights.
