By Mercy Peter
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has urged Nigerians residing in South Africa to exercise heightened caution following a wave of anti-foreigner demonstrations that have intensified across several parts of the country.
In a statement signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Head of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit at NiDCOM, who reiterated the commission’s commitment to the welfare and safety of Nigerians in the diaspora amid the unfolding crisis. in Abuja on April 24, 2026.
The commission advised Nigerian nationals to strictly adhere to safety directives earlier released by the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg. The advisory follows an official circular (Ref No: CGJHB/AD/209/VOL I) dated April 22, 2026, which detailed escalating unrest in multiple cities.
According to the consulate, demonstrations in East London, Cape Town, Durban, and across KwaZulu-Natal have turned violent, resulting in looting, destruction of property, and injuries. Intelligence reports cited in the circular further indicate that additional protests are planned in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29, 2026, with demonstrators reportedly seeking to pressure authorities over the presence of foreign nationals.
NiDCOM called on Nigerians to avoid confrontations, refrain from engaging with protest groups, and closely monitor local media for real-time updates on security conditions. The commission emphasized the importance of remaining law-abiding at all times.
The advisory also specifically targeted Nigerian business owners, urging them to take precautionary measures, including shutting down operations on Freedom Day, and considering closure on April 28 and 29 due to the heightened risk of attacks on foreign-owned businesses during periods of unrest.
NiDCOM reaffirmed its support for the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg, led by Consul-General Amb. Ninikanwa O. Okey-Uche, noting that the mission remains fully operational and is working closely with South African law enforcement agencies to safeguard Nigerian citizens.
The commission further disclosed that Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs,Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu is actively engaging her South African counterpart in diplomatic efforts aimed at addressing the situation and ensuring the protection of Nigerians.
