Africa

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Tinubu has said his administration’s financial and fiscal reforms have placed Nigeria’s economy on a path of steady growth after three years in office.

The president made the remarks on Wednesday at the State House in Abuja when he received a delegation from Deloitte Africa led by its Chief Executive Officer, Ruwayda Redfearn.

According to Tinubu, although the reforms came with initial difficulties, they have strengthened the country’s economic foundation and created conditions for long-term growth.

“We are following the example of Deloitte’s greatness to change things from the foundation, building the necessary future for our people,” Tinubu said.

“Yes, reforms are difficult. It has not been a McDonald’s customer relationship but a harvester of good things, if implemented well, and that is what we are about.

“Thank you for your partnership in paying attention to what we are doing here, as we have heard from the honourable minister of finance about the fiscal, revenue and tax reforms that have taken place and are moving the nation forward.

“The reforms on revenue will continue to stimulate growth. And the effect of the reform? Yes, some issues are difficult to take the bitter medicine, but it is working well. For the economy, Nigeria is making serious foundational progress.”

The president stated that the reforms have improved Nigeria’s fiscal and revenue systems, repositioned financial institutions and enhanced the country’s competitiveness. He also urged Deloitte Africa to support the government’s efforts by investing in youth development and job creation.

“The family of Deloitte; you just reminded me of my cradle years in accountancy and where I cut my childhood accounting teeth in Chicago,” he said.

“Deloitte has a good training programme, and I believe you will continue to reflect that.”

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, also encouraged the firm to prioritise programmes that build the capacity of young Nigerians.

Speaking on behalf of the firm, Redfearn reaffirmed Deloitte Africa’s commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s reform agenda.

“We are before you to say that we want to serve,” she said.

“We have a local team on the ground that is ready, as well as the global firm, to support you and support your administration as you lead the country.”

She disclosed that Deloitte employs more than 500,000 people worldwide, including over 6,000 in Africa, and generated $74 billion in revenue in 2025.

Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of Deloitte West Africa, Yomi Olugbenro, said the firm is prepared to deploy its international experience to support Nigeria’s economic transformation.

“We do believe that with the capabilities that the firm has all over the world, with the half a million people that our CEO spoke about, we have use cases, examples and experiences of how we supported nations all around the world, so Nigeria will definitely benefit from those experiences,” Olugbenro said.

“So that is why we are here, and we welcome the invitation that you may grant us as to where exactly you want us to support you.”

By Muhammad Abubakar

Senegal captain Sadio Mane has announced his retirement from international football following his country’s dramatic 3-2 extra-time defeat to Belgium in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 34-year-old ends a remarkable 14-year international career with 132 appearances and 55 goals for the Lions of Teranga. Widely regarded as one of Senegal’s greatest footballers, Mane played a key role in transforming the national team into one of Africa’s strongest sides.

His greatest achievement came when he inspired Senegal to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title, cementing his place in the country’s football history. Throughout his international career, Mane was known for his leadership, consistency, and match-winning performances.

His retirement marks the end of an era for Senegal, with fans paying tribute to a player whose contributions helped elevate the nation’s status on the world stage.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Aisha Hanan Buhari, daughter of late former President Muhammadu Buhari, has received recognition as one of Africa’s 100 Most Notable Peace Icons at a summit held in Marrakech, Morocco.

The honour came during the 2026 edition of the 100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit. Davdan Peace and Advocacy Foundation organised the award programme to celebrate Africans who have distinguished themselves in peacebuilding, humanitarian activities, leadership and sustainable development.

Aisha, who serves as founder and chief executive officer of the Hanan Buhari Foundation, earned the recognition for her humanitarian efforts, advocacy for social justice and projects aimed at empowering communities.

Speaking after receiving the award, she described the recognition as both an honour and a call to greater responsibility.

“Receiving this honour is both a privilege and a responsibility,” she said.

“It serves as a reminder that meaningful change is possible when compassion, dedication, and service guide our actions.”

She stated that the award also reflected the commitment and contributions of the foundation’s staff, volunteers, partners and supporters.

According to her, leadership should be judged through service to humanity, support for vulnerable people and the pursuit of justice.

Aisha dedicated the award to her late father, whom she said inspired her devotion to public service and humanitarian work.

“I dedicate this recognition to my late father, may Allah be pleased with him, and to every individual who continues to work courageously for positive change, often without recognition or reward,” she said.

She also praised her husband, Muhammad Turad Sha’aban, who co-founded the Hanan Buhari Foundation with her. She said his support and leadership helped the organisation expand its humanitarian activities.

The foundation reaffirmed its commitment to widening programmes that focus on community empowerment, humanitarian intervention and sustainable development in Nigeria and other parts of Africa.

By Muhammad Abubakar

A renowned mathematician and infectious disease modeller, Professor Abba B. Gumel, has been elected President-Elect of the Society for Mathematical Biology (SMB), becoming the first African to attain the prestigious position.

The announcement was celebrated by academics and researchers across the world, including Dr Salihu Sabiu Musa, who described the achievement as a major milestone for mathematical biology and African scholarship.

The Society for Mathematical Biology is one of the world’s leading professional organisations dedicated to advancing research and education at the intersection of mathematics and the life sciences.

Professor Gumel is internationally recognised for his pioneering contributions to infectious disease modelling, particularly in the study of epidemics and public health challenges. His work has influenced scientific understanding of disease transmission and informed public health responses globally.

According to Dr Musa, Professor Gumel’s election reflects his outstanding scholarship, leadership, and commitment to mentoring students and early-career researchers. He noted that the professor has inspired and supported countless scientists worldwide through his research and academic guidance.

Scholars have described the development as a significant achievement for Africa, highlighting the growing global impact of African researchers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Professor Gumel is expected to help shape the future direction of mathematical biology as the field continues to play an increasingly important role in addressing global health and environmental challenges.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

South Africa’s Minister of Justice, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has expressed concern over the growing impact of xenophobia allegations on the country’s international reputation, warning that the situation is beginning to affect citizens, businesses and entertainers across Africa.

Kubayi said the negative perception of South Africa is creating challenges beyond diplomatic circles. She noted that artists who depend on performances in other African countries are now facing cancelled bookings and financial losses.

“Majority of South African artists who perform in other African countries are seeing their gigs getting cancelled. One artist reached out to me and said all her gigs were cancelled,” she said.

The minister explained that the backlash has affected the country’s image and is creating difficulties for both individuals and businesses operating outside South Africa.

“We are raising the issues that we are raising, the brand is hurting, we can’t lie about it. The backlash, and that’s why part of the work that we are doing as government as well through DECO is engagement with businesses abroad,” she said.

According to Kubayi, the government has stepped up diplomatic efforts to support South African companies facing challenges in other countries. She added that Foreign Affairs Minister Ronald Lamola has been holding discussions with businesses abroad, while consular assistance has also been strengthened.

She noted that the effects have now spread to the entertainment industry, where cancelled performances are depriving artists of expected income. The government, she said, plans to work closely with stakeholders in the arts and culture sector to assess the extent of the problem and consider possible responses.

Despite the criticism directed at the country, Kubayi rejected claims that South Africans should generally be described as xenophobic. She stated that the government remains committed to responsible citizenship and is addressing migration issues through legal and institutional channels.

The minister also said South Africa continues to engage with other African countries, which she claimed understand the challenges posed by undocumented migration and support lawful enforcement measures.

At the same time, she called on communities to refrain from attacks on foreign nationals, warning that such actions undermine national unity and damage South Africa’s standing internationally.

Kubayi stressed that foreigners who reside legally in the country deserve protection. She said the government’s approach seeks to balance immigration enforcement with respect for human rights and regional cooperation.

Recent incidents of violence and unrest involving foreign nationals have renewed concerns about xenophobia in South Africa. Reports indicate that anti-immigrant protests and attacks on foreign-owned businesses in some communities have forced migrants from countries including Nigeria, Mozambique and Malawi to flee affected areas or seek protection.

Human rights organisations have linked the incidents to economic hardship, unemployment and growing hostility toward undocumented migrants.

The issue has also generated debate during the ongoing World Cup period. Discussions surrounding South Africa’s participation have been influenced by reports of attacks on foreign nationals, while some African football supporters have voiced criticism and anger on social media and fan platforms.

The developments have intensified concerns that xenophobia-related tensions could continue to harm South Africa’s image across the continent.

 By Leah Nickaf 

Across Africa, women are increasingly taking centre stage in driving social change, community development, and humanitarian action. From education and healthcare to poverty alleviation and youth empowerment, female leaders are reshaping the continent’s development landscape through compassion-driven initiatives that address some of society’s most pressing challenges. Among these emerging voices is Amb. Dr Omanibe Ameh-Sanusi, founder of Oma Life Rescue Foundation, whose recent recognition as African Iconic Person of the Year highlights the growing influence of women-led humanitarian movements across Africa.

The special honour is more than a personal achievement; it is a recognition of the impact that dedicated women leaders are making within their communities. Through Oma Life Rescue Foundation, Dr Ameh-Sanusi has championed initiatives focused on education, empowerment, and humanitarian support for vulnerable populations. Her commitment to improving lives, particularly through projects such as the A Million Dream Educational Scholarship, reflects a leadership style centred on service, inclusion, and sustainable development. The award serves as a testament to the lives transformed through her vision and the foundation’s outreach efforts.

Women-led organisations are increasingly demonstrating that effective humanitarian work goes beyond providing immediate relief.

They are creating long-term solutions that empower individuals and strengthen communities. Under Dr Ameh-Sanusi’s leadership, Oma Life Rescue Foundation has embraced this approach by investing in education, supporting underserved communities, and creating opportunities for young people to build better futures. These efforts align with a broader movement across Africa, in which women are leading innovative responses to social challenges and advancing community-driven development.

The recognition of Dr Ameh-Sanusi also highlights the importance of supporting female leadership in the humanitarian sector. Across the continent, women continue to break barriers and redefine leadership by combining empathy with action. Their ability to understand community needs and mobilise resources for positive change has become a powerful force in addressing inequality, expanding access to opportunities, and fostering social progress.

As Oma Life Rescue Foundation continues to expand its reach, the award represents both a celebration of past achievements and a call to greater impact. It reinforces the foundation’s mission to transform lives while inspiring other women to pursue leadership roles in humanitarian work. In an era when Africa’s development increasingly depends on collaborative and inclusive leadership, Dr Omanibe Ameh-Sanusi stands as an example of how one woman’s vision can grow into a movement that uplifts communities and creates lasting change.

The rise of women-led humanitarian movements across Africa is not merely a trend; it is a transformative force. Through leaders like Dr Omanibe Ameh-Sanusi, the continent is witnessing the power of compassion, resilience, and purposeful leadership to build a more equitable and hopeful future for generations to come.

By Ahmed Usman

In the years following independence, Northern Nigeria stood at the forefront of the country’s economic progress. The region’s agricultural output, symbolised by the famous groundnut pyramids of Kano and by thriving cotton production across the savannah belt, powered employment, export earnings, and real-sector development. For a time, Northern Nigeria was not only a major driver of Nigeria’s economy but also one of the most economically vibrant regions on the African continent. Today, however, the region finds itself at a critical crossroads.

Over the past two decades, Northern Nigeria has faced a combination of security, economic, and structural challenges that have slowed its development trajectory. The rise of insurgency in the North-East, banditry and cattle rustling in parts of the North-West, and persistent farmers–herders conflicts have disrupted livelihoods, weakened agricultural production, and discouraged investment. These crises have inflicted enormous human and economic costs not only on the region but also on the Nigerian economy as a whole.

Yet security challenges alone do not explain the region’s economic difficulties. The deeper problem lies in the failure to convert the region’s extraordinary demographic and natural advantages into sustained economic growth.

Northern Nigeria possesses some of the most significant development assets in the country. The region accounts for more than 60 per cent of Nigeria’s population and contains over 80 per cent of the country’s arable land. It also receives abundant sunlight, suitable for solar power generation, and hosts numerous dams capable of supporting large-scale irrigation and energy production.

Despite these advantages, the region continues to record some of Nigeria’s most troubling development indicators. Poverty levels remain among the highest in the country. Youth unemployment is widespread. The region also accounts for about 20 million out-of-school children, one of the highest figures worldwide. Internally generated revenue in many northern states remains low, limiting the fiscal capacity needed to finance development.

This paradox of abundant resources alongside persistent poverty highlights the urgency of a new development strategy to transform its demographic advantages into a true demographic dividend.

At the heart of the solution lies the revival of the real sector. For too long, Nigeria’s growth model has leaned heavily on the service sector and oil revenues, sectors that generate limited employment relative to the country’s rapidly expanding workforce. Each year, millions of young Nigerians enter the labour market, yet the economy struggles to create sufficient productive jobs. Sustainable and inclusive growth will require renewed investment in sectors capable of generating large-scale employment. Agriculture, agro-processing, manufacturing, and renewable energy stand out as areas where Northern Nigeria holds a natural comparative advantage.

Agriculture in particular offers a powerful pathway for economic transformation. With vast fertile land and favourable climatic conditions, the region has the potential to become Nigeria’s primary agricultural hub once again. Expanding irrigation farming, adopting modern agricultural technologies, improving access to inputs, and strengthening agricultural value chains could dramatically increase productivity while generating millions of rural jobs. But agriculture alone will not be enough. The next stage of development must focus on building strong agro-industrial linkages. Processing agricultural products locally rather than exporting raw commodities can significantly increase value addition, stimulate rural industries, and expand export opportunities.

Infrastructure will be critical to unlocking these opportunities. Reliable electricity, modern road networks, efficient storage systems, and improved logistics are essential for connecting farmers, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs to national and global markets. The region’s extensive dam infrastructure already provides enormous potential for irrigation agriculture and renewable energy if properly utilised.

Equally important is the need to invest in human capital. Northern Nigeria’s youthful population represents one of the region’s greatest assets, but only if young people are equipped with the education, skills, and opportunities needed to participate in a modern economy. Expanding access to quality education, strengthening vocational training, and promoting the development of technical skills must become central pillars of the region’s development strategy.

Yet economic progress ultimately depends on the strength of institutions. Transparent governance, accountable public institutions, and a regulatory environment that encourages private investment are essential for sustainable development. Reducing bureaucratic barriers, strengthening property rights, and improving the ease of doing business will be critical for attracting both domestic and foreign investment.

History shows that development trajectories can change when policy direction aligns with economic potential. Northern Nigeria once played a central role in powering Nigeria’s economic progress. There is no reason it cannot do so again.

The challenges facing the region are significant, but they are not insurmountable. With strategic investments, stronger institutions, and a renewed focus on the real sector, Northern Nigeria can unlock the immense potential of its land, its resources, and most importantly, its people. The region’s future should not be determined by the weight of its challenges but by the boldness of its choices. If those choices are made wisely, Northern Nigeria could once again emerge as one of the most powerful engines of economic growth in the country and perhaps on the continent.

By Haroon Aremu,

In a vox pop, when they asked a simple question on the streets of Europe and America: “Which country is the poorest in the world?” The answers came quickly, confidently, and shockingly wrong.

“Africa.” “Africa is the poorest.” “Africa.” Not one voice hesitated. Not one voice paused to rethink. And therein lies the tragedy not of Africa, but of global ignorance because Africa is not a country. Africa is a continent. And more dangerously, Africa is not poor.

The birth of lies of how Africa became a Global stereotype. For decades, Africa has been reduced to a single, distorted image: poverty, hunger, conflict, corruption, and helplessness.

In global media narratives, Africa is often portrayed as a land of endless crises children with distended bellies, dusty villages, and hopeless economies. These images have travelled faster than facts, shaping how the world perceives the continent.

But stereotypes are not truths. They are shortcuts of ignorance. The reality is far more complex and far more powerful. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and largest economy, is often caricatured as a land of scams, insecurity, and chaos.

Yet Nigeria is also one of Africa’s biggest economy by GDP, global hub of music, film, and tech innovation, home to billion-dollar startups and Africa’s largest film industry (Nollywood), and one of the world’s leading producers of oil and gas. Nigeria’s problem is not poverty of resources it is poverty of governance.

Ghana is frequently portrayed as a quiet, underdeveloped state. But Ghana is one of Africa’s most stable democracies, a major producer of gold and cocoa, a growing tech and fintech hub, and a country with rising middle-class influence and strong diaspora impact. Ghana is not poor. It is strategically under-recognised.

South Africa is often stereotyped as a crime-ridden society haunted by racial inequality. But in reality South Africa is also Africa’s most industrialised economy. It is a home to advanced infrastructure and global corporations and also one of the world’s largest producers of platinum, gold, and diamonds. Its challenge is inequality, not lack of wealth.

Kenya is a “Tech Savannah Ignored”. Kenya is often reduced to safaris and wildlife documentaries. But Kenya is East Africa’s innovation capital, home to M-Pesa, one of the world’s most revolutionary digital payment systems. Kenya is a regional hub for startups, logistics, and global investment. Kenya is not backward. It is digitally ahead of many Western economies.

Countries like Sierra Leone and Benin Republic are often dismissed as “poor African states.” But Sierra Leone has rich mineral resources, including diamonds and iron ore. It is a growing post-war economy and youthful innovation sector.

Benin Republic has strategic trade routes and ports with a vibrant informal economy and cultural influence across West Africa. Their struggles are historical and structural—not natural. 

Here is the irony the world refuses to confront, Africa holds an enormous share of the world’s natural wealth. The continent possesses about 30% of the world’s mineral resources, including gold, diamonds, cobalt, platinum, and uranium. Africa is home to vast reserves of oil, gas, rare earth minerals, and agricultural land that the world depends on. 

One of the most persistent and misleading stereotypes about African countries is the belief that Africans are largely uneducated, technologically backward, and incapable of innovation without foreign intervention. This narrative suggests that modern ideas, digital skills, and scientific breakthroughs are imported into Africa rather than created within it.

Yet this claim collapses under reality: African youths are building global tech startups, engineers are designing fintech systems used by millions, filmmakers are reshaping global entertainment, and researchers are contributing to science and medicine across continents. 

The problem has never been a lack of intelligence or creativity; it has been the lack of global recognition and supportive systems to amplify Africa’s homegrown brilliance. 

If wealth were measured by resources alone, Africa would not be poor. It would be unbeatable. So why does the world think Africa is poor? Because poverty is not just economic, it is political.

Africa is not poor in resources. Africa is poor in systems, leadership accountability, and equitable distribution of wealth. And that is not the fault of ordinary Africans.

The truth is painful, Africa is rich, but Africans are made poor by mismanagement. Africa is powerful, but its power is fragmented by borders and politics. Africa is wealthy, but its wealth is exported cheaply and imported expensively.

The vox pop passers-by responded to is a classic case of when ignorance meets reality. When people on Western streets say, “Africa is the poorest country,” they are not entirely guilty. They are victims of narratives created by western media framing, historical colonial distortions, and Africa’s own failure to tell its story convincingly.

The real question is not why foreigners think Africa is poor. The real question is why has Africa allowed the world to believe a lie? Imagine if Africa were one country. What if Africa was not divided into 54 countries? What if Africa spoke with one voice, traded with one currency, and defended its interests collectively?

Even in its current fragmented state, Africa remains the world’s most resource-rich continent. If united, it would not beg. It would dictate.

Africa is not poor, Africa is plundered. Africa is not the poorest place on earth. Africa is the most misunderstood. Africa is not lacking in wealth. Africa is lacking in systems that protect its wealth. Africa is not a burden to the world. Africa is the world’s hidden backbone.  

Until African governments rise to prove this reality, not with speeches, but with structures, the lie will continue to travel faster than the truth.

But history has a way of correcting lies. And when Africa finally tells its story in its own voice, the world will discover a shocking truth: The poorest continent was never Africa. The poorest thing about Africa was how the world chose to see it.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a Nigerian writer and wrote in via exponentumera@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

China has lifted import tariffs on goods from 53 African countries. The new policy grants duty-free access to almost all nations on the continent, except Eswatini.

The measure took effect on Friday. It applies to African countries that maintain diplomatic relations with Beijing. Eswatini remains the only country left out because it has formal ties with Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory.

China had earlier removed tariffs on products from 33 least-developed African countries in December 2024. The latest move adds 20 more countries to the arrangement. According to Global Times, these nations will enjoy preferential duty-free access until 30 April 2028.

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce said the decision would boost the competitiveness of African exports in its market. Products expected to benefit include cocoa from Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, citrus and wine from South Africa, as well as coffee and avocados from Kenya.

Officials also said the policy could support the growth of processing industries across Africa and attract more investment into the sector.

Lin Jian, a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, described the move as an “expression of China’s willingness to voluntarily expand openness and assume more international responsibilities”.

“It aims to share opportunities with Africa and achieve common development,” he said.

China remains Africa’s largest trading partner. In 2025, it imported goods worth more than £90 billion from the continent. This represents an increase of 5.4 per cent compared to the previous year. Total trade between both sides reached £255 billion.

The chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, welcomed the development. He said the policy was “very timely” as African economies face global economic challenges and rising protectionist measures.

“I would like to express, on behalf of the African Union Commission, our sincere gratitude for this very brotherly gesture that all Africans appreciate,” he said.

The tariff removal forms part of China’s broader economic plan under its 15th Five-Year Plan covering 2026 to 2030. The plan focuses on expanding market access and strengthening trade and investment ties.

Lauren Johnston, a research fellow at the AustChina Institute, said the expanded access could increase agricultural exports. She noted it may also “help elevate rural incomes, improve rural productivity, and ultimately reduce hunger and poverty”.

However, some experts believe tariff cuts alone may not solve Africa’s trade challenges. Jervin Naidoo, a political analyst at Oxford Economics Africa, said that “many African economies still face structural constraints such as limited industrial capacity, weak logistics, and reliance on raw commodity exports, which tariff reductions alone cannot address”.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Nigerians residing in South Africa have urged the Federal Government to take firm measures to safeguard their lives and businesses amid rising xenophobic tensions in the country.

The call was made by the President of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA), Rev. Frank Onyekwelu, in a statement issued on Sunday. His appeal comes as anti-foreigner protests intensify across several South African cities, with demonstrators reportedly targeting businesses owned by foreign nationals and demanding their expulsion.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) had earlier advised citizens in South Africa to temporarily shut down their businesses and remain indoors for safety. The commission’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, said the directive followed a notice from the Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg.

NiDCOM disclosed that protests in areas such as East London, Cape Town, Durban, and KwaZulu-Natal have turned violent. Incidents of looting, property damage, and injuries have been reported. The commission also warned of planned demonstrations in Gauteng province between April 27 and 29. It noted that foreign-owned businesses are often the main targets during such unrest. Nigerians were therefore advised to close their shops on April 27, which marks South Africa’s Freedom Day, and possibly remain closed until April 29.

According to Daily Trust, despite the advisory, many Nigerians have criticised the Federal Government on social media. They argued that asking citizens to stay indoors does not address the root of the problem or guarantee their safety.

Meanwhile, Ghana has taken diplomatic steps over a related incident involving one of its citizens. Authorities in Accra summoned South Africa’s acting High Commissioner, Thando Dalamba, after a viral video showed a Ghanaian being harassed. Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the victim was a legal resident and condemned the act. The country’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Ablakwa, also announced plans to relocate the victim, Emmanuel Asamoa, at government expense. The move followed direct engagement with South African authorities, which led to official apologies and diplomatic discussions.

In its statement, NICASA expressed strong concern over what it described as a growing pattern of hostility against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.

Onyekwelu said, “We are alarmed by the increasing normalisation of hostility, manifested through inflammatory rhetoric by certain political actors, unlawful intimidation, and discriminatory enforcement practices by some law enforcement personnel.

“These actions not only undermine human dignity but also threaten the long-standing bonds of African solidarity.”

The association called for immediate high-level diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and South Africa. It also demanded a clear system for reporting and addressing cases of harassment, abuse, and xenophobic attacks. NICASA further requested accountability for security personnel found guilty of misconduct and urged the Nigerian government to reassure its citizens of their protection abroad.

The group warned that xenophobia contradicts the vision of African unity and called for a coordinated response through the African Union and regional bodies.

Reacting to the situation, the spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said the government is awaiting updates from its missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg. He stated, “[We are] waiting for updates from our Missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg”.

Diplomatic experts have also weighed in on the development. A former President of the United Nations Human Rights Council, Ambassador Martin Ihoeghian Uhomoibhi, condemned the attacks and urged Nigeria to respond decisively.

He said, “The Federal Government should take strict action.

“You cannot go to sleep when you are being publicly attacked. Nigeria should act and act very simply and promptly.”

Uhomoibhi dismissed suggestions that Nigerians should leave South Africa, adding, “That is not the solution. You [Nigeria] should take diplomatic action.”

“The game of diplomacy is reciprocity. You slap me, I slap you back. In diplomacy. If you keep quiet, you portray yourself as a sleepy dog or something or a nobody.”

On his part, former Nigerian ambassador to Sudan, Côte d’Ivoire, and Angola, Suleiman Dahiru, said Nigeria’s options are largely limited to diplomatic engagement.

He explained that while the attacks are “totally misplaced,” addressing them remains the responsibility of South African authorities.

“Nigeria has engaged South Africa on so many occasions. This is a diplomatic issue, and it is being handled diplomatically,” he said.

Dahiru also rejected claims that Nigerians are responsible for job losses in South Africa, describing such arguments as baseless.

“They are not working for any state government in South Africa. They are not working for any local government. So, to blame them for taking away jobs that should normally go to them is totally wrong,” he said.

He added that most African migrants operate private businesses and should not be blamed unfairly. “Nobody has stopped South African blacks from doing what other Africans are doing. Let them set up their own businesses and get their own people to patronise them,” he said.

However, Dahiru advised migrants to be mindful of how they are perceived. He noted that displays of unexplained wealth could create suspicion among locals.