Nigeria has expressed deep dissatisfaction over recurring xenophobic attacks against its citizens in South Africa, with Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressing that such incidents undermine the historic solidarity Nigeria extended during South Africa’s struggle against apartheid.
Speaking to journalists, Odumegwu-Ojukwu said Nigeria’s support for South Africa’s liberation came at a significant cost, describing it as a commitment rooted in both principle and sacrifice.
“Nigeria is not happy because Nigeria sacrificed so much for South Africa’s struggle for independence,” he said. “We committed funds, deployed resources, and stood firmly behind the anti-apartheid movement.”
The minister recalled that Nigerian institutions reserved educational opportunities for South African students, while citizens across the country actively mobilised in support of the liberation struggle.
“In our schools, seats were set aside for South African students. My generation marched with placards and demonstrated in front of South African assets in solidarity with their fight for freedom,” he said.
His remarks come amid renewed concerns over xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals in South Africa, with Nigeria urging authorities to ensure the safety and protection of its citizens while preserving the longstanding ties between the two African nations.
