The National Association of Nigerian Students has called on the Federal Government to urgently intervene in the safety of Nigerian students in South Africa following renewed xenophobic tensions.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its Vice President for External Affairs, Aneke Kenechukwu, the association raised concerns 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 threatens lives and undermines the spirit of African unity and cooperation.
“Nigerian students in South Africa 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 take immediate diplomatic steps by engaging South African authorities to secure firm assurances for the safety of Nigerian citizens, especially students.
It also called for the activation of diplomatic channels to monitor developments closely and ensure that perpetrators of xenophobic violence are held accountable.
The association further appealed for urgent support for affected students, including the “provision of safe shelters, dedicated emergency hotlines, and financial assistance where necessary.”
In addition, NANS recommended the development of a “coordinated evacuation plan for Nigerian students willing to return home”, noting that such a measure would reduce exposure to further 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 emphasised the need for collaboration between government agencies, Nigerian missions abroad, and international partners to ensure no student is left vulnerable.
“The time to act is now. Every delay endangers innocent lives,” the statement concluded.
Reports indicate that xenophobic protests have intensified in parts of South Africa, including Pretoria, where migrants have reportedly faced harassment, threats, and violence. Some incidents allegedly involved attempts to block or remove children of foreign nationals from schools.
The unrest has reportedly led to fatalities, including two Nigerians, heightening concerns within the diaspora.
While Nigeria’s acting ambassador to South Africa has maintained that the situation is under control, President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged foreign nationals to obey local laws while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to human rights.
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