The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has issued an urgent advisory to Nigerians residing in South Africa, urging heightened caution amid escalating anti-foreigner demonstrations across several cities.
The warning follows an official circular from the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg (Ref No: CGJHB/AD/209/VOL I), dated April 22, 2026, which reported violent protests in parts of the country, including East London, Cape Town, Durban, and KwaZulu-Natal. The unrest has reportedly resulted in looting, destruction of property, and injuries.
According to intelligence cited in the consulate’s advisory, additional demonstrations are expected to take place in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29, with protesters aiming to pressure the South African government over the presence of foreign nationals.
In a statement signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Head of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit at NiDCOM, Nigerians were strongly advised to avoid confrontations, steer clear of protest areas, and refrain from engaging with demonstrators. The commission also urged citizens to closely monitor local media for real-time updates on the evolving situation.
NiDCOM further stressed the importance of Nigerians remaining law-abiding at all times, while cautioning business owners to take preventive measures. Specifically, Nigerian-owned businesses have been advised to shut operations on Freedom Day, and consider remaining closed through April 28 and 29, as foreign-owned establishments are often targeted during such unrest.
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The commission reaffirmed its support for the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg, led by Ambassador Ninikanwa O. Okey-Uche, noting that the mission remains fully operational and is actively liaising with South African police authorities to ensure the safety of Nigerian nationals.
It also disclosed that the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Onoh, is engaging her South African counterpart in diplomatic efforts to address the situation and safeguard Nigerians in the country.
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