Nigeria Condemns Killings of Nationals in South Africa, Pledges Stronger Ties

By Angel Ike

The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed serious concern over the extrajudicial killings of Nigerians in South Africa by the Dudula anti-immigrant movement.

Bianca Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, raised the issue during the Nigeria-South Africa Consultations meeting held in Abuja.

The meeting, co-chaired by South Africa’s Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Thandi Moraka, marked the inaugural session of the Early Warning Mechanism strategy under the Bi-National Commission (BNC).

Ojukwu lamented the slow pace of justice for victims and highlighted that, despite the historic and fraternal ties between the two nations, violence and discrimination against Nigerians in South Africa persist.

Thandi Moraka acknowledged Nigeria’s crucial support during South Africa’s liberation struggle and reassured that the South African government is actively addressing the challenge.

Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations across key sectors including trade and investment, energy, mining, solid minerals, and technology.

Ojukwu stated, “The strong fraternal bond between Nigeria and South Africa is grounded in a shared anti-colonial and anti-apartheid struggle

“It has since evolved into a shared aspiration for African leadership and development, an atmosphere we aim to strengthen through these political consultations.

Moraka described the meeting “as a vital platform for deepening cooperation and
overcoming challenges, emphasising the transformation of historic solidarity into a strategic partnership since diplomatic relations began in 1994.”

A memorandum of understanding was signed to formalise the Early Warning Mechanism aimed at improving communication, enhancing responses to emerging issues, and preventing future conflicts between the two countries.