Nigerian Government Issues Warning to Its Citizens Amid Fears of Violent Demonstrations Against Foreigners in South Africa on Monday

Ahead of planned nationwide anti-foreigner protests in South Africa on May 4, 2026, the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg has issued a security advisory to Nigerians residing in the country, as announced by Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, the Consul General, in a statement on Sunday.

n

The Consulate General's warning follows alerts about the mobilisation of anti-foreigner groups planning demonstrations across all nine provinces of South Africa, with the aim of pressuring the government to take action against foreign nationals.

n

The protests, according to organisers, are driven by claims that foreigners are disproportionately benefiting from the country's resources, and are calling for the departure of both documented and undocumented migrants from South Africa.

n

In Johannesburg, protesters are expected to congregate at Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., with a memorandum set to be presented around noon, as indicated by the consulate's advisory.

n

Disruptions are anticipated in major cities, including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, and Durban, prompting Nigerian authorities to caution citizens to remain calm and avoid confrontation during the protest period.

n

Nigerian nationals have been strongly advised to avoid engaging with demonstrators or confronting them, with the consulate urging citizens to take necessary safety precautions.

n

Nigerian business owners have been advised to consider temporarily closing their shops, as foreign-owned businesses may become potential targets during the demonstrations.

n

The Consulate General has assured Nigerians that it will continue to provide consular support and work with relevant South African authorities to ensure the safety of citizens and their property.

n

South African law enforcement agencies have been notified and are expected to deploy measures to maintain order and protect foreign nationals, according to the advisory.

n

The security advisory comes amid rising xenophobic tensions in parts of South Africa, where about 130 Nigerians have already registered for voluntary repatriation flights being arranged by the Federal Government.