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 a surge in xenophobic tensions.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its Vice President for External Affairs, Aneke Kenechukwu, the association expressed alarm over what it described as a growing 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, noting that many Nigerian students 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 engage South African authorities diplomatically to secure firm guarantees for the safety of Nigerian citizens, especially students. It also called for the activation of monitoring mechanisms to track developments and ensure accountability for acts of violence.
The association further appealed for immediate support measures, including the provision of safe shelters, emergency hotlines, and financial assistance for affected students.
In addition, NANS recommended the development of a coordinated evacuation plan for students willing to return to Nigeria, stressing that such a move could reduce exposure to ongoing 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 called for collaboration between the government, Nigerian diplomatic missions, and international partners to ensure the safety of all affected students.
Reports indicate that xenophobic protests have intensified in parts of South Africa, including Pretoria, with incidents of harassment, violence, and threats against migrants. Some reports also suggest attempts to target children of foreign nationals in schools.
The unrest has reportedly led to fatalities, including two Nigerians, heightening concern within the diaspora.
While Nigeria’s Acting Ambassador to South Africa has maintained that the situation is under control, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged foreign nationals to respect local laws while reaffirming his government’s commitment to human rights