The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the Federal Government to take urgent action to safeguard Nigerian students in South Africa following reports of rising xenophobic attacks.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, NANS Vice President for External Affairs, Aneke Kenechukwu, expressed concern over what the association 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 serious threat to lives and undermines the spirit of African unity and cooperation.
“Nigerian students in South Africa are currently living 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 Nigerian government to engage South African authorities through diplomatic channels to secure firm assurances on the safety of Nigerians, especially students, and to ensure that perpetrators of xenophobic violence are brought to justice.
The association also called for immediate support measures, including the provision of safe shelters, emergency hotlines, and financial assistance for affected students.
It further recommended the development of a coordinated evacuation plan for Nigerian students willing to return home, noting that such steps could help prevent further exposure to danger.
While emphasizing diplomacy as the most appropriate approach, NANS insisted that it must be “assertive and result-oriented,” warning against delays that could put lives at risk.
The group also advocated stronger collaboration between the government, NANS, Nigerian diplomatic missions, and international partners to ensure the safety of Nigerians abroad.
Reports indicate that xenophobic protests have intensified in parts of Pretoria and other areas, with migrants allegedly facing threats, harassment, and attacks. Some demonstrations have reportedly targeted schools, with attempts to exclude children of foreign nationals.
The situation has reportedly led to the deaths of two Nigerians, heightening concerns within the diaspora and prompting renewed calls for swift government intervention.
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated his government’s commitment to human rights while urging foreign nationals to abide by local laws. Nigeria’s Acting Ambassador to South Africa has also indicated that the situation is being closely monitored.