Nigeria Diaspora Commission Warns Citizens to Exercise Caution Amid South Africa Turmoil

Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, led by chair and CEO Abike Dabiri-Erewa, is urging citizens living in South Africa to follow the safety advisory issued by the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg, due to escalating anti-foreigner protests.

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The warning comes after a circular from the Consulate General, dated April 22, 2026, with reference number CGJHB/AD/209/VOL 1, highlighted violent protests in East London, Cape Town, Durban, and KwaZulu-Natal, resulting in looting, property damage, and injuries.

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According to the circular, further demonstrations are planned in Gauteng Province from Monday, April 27, to Wednesday, April 29, 2026, with protesters demanding the South African government take stronger action against foreign nationals.

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A statement from NiDCOM, signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, head of Media and Public Relations, warns of scheduled protests in Gauteng Province between April 27-29, 2026, with demonstrators seeking to pressure the South African government over the presence of foreign nationals.

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In response, NiDCOM advises Nigerian citizens to avoid confrontations with protesters, refrain from engaging with demonstration groups, monitor local media for real-time safety information, and remain law-abiding at all times.

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Nigerian business owners are also advised to protect their businesses by closing on Freedom Day, April 27, and considering remaining closed on April 28 and 29, as foreign-owned businesses are often targeted during unrest.

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NiDCOM has fully endorsed the advisory issued by Consul-General Amb. Nnikanwa O. Okey-Uche, and confirmed that the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg remains operational and is working with South African police to safeguard Nigerian nationals.

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Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Ojukwu, is currently engaging with her South African counterpart on the matter, according to the statement.

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NiDCOM reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora, urging them to remain vigilant and prioritize personal safety during this time.