President Bola Tinubu has strongly condemned the recent wave of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa, urging the country’s leaders to remember the sacrifices made by Nigeria and other African nations during the anti-apartheid struggle.
Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, Tinubu stressed that Africa must stand united against xenophobia and all forms of intolerance. He declared that South Africa’s freedom was achieved with the support and sacrifices of fellow African countries, including Nigeria, and should not be forgotten.
The President called on ECOWAS leaders to jointly condemn the attacks and raise the matter before the African Union, saying such violence has no place on the continent. He added that Nigeria had already evacuated more than 1,490 of its citizens from South Africa following the attacks and remained committed to protecting its nationals.
Tinubu also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace, integration, and democratic governance, urging African leaders to strengthen cooperation in tackling insecurity and promoting unity across the continent.
The renewed condemnation comes amid growing concerns over the safety of foreign nationals in South Africa, where recurring xenophobic violence has strained diplomatic relations with several African countries.
