Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has condemned the alleged harassment and humiliation of Nigerians living in South Africa, warning that the Federal Government will not remain silent over the treatment of its citizens.

Ojukwu made the remarks during diplomatic engagements with South African authorities following renewed anti-foreigner protests and rising concerns over xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other African nationals in parts of South Africa.

"We cannot watch our citizens being humiliated in your country,” the minister stated, stressing that Nigeria expects South Africa to uphold the rights and dignity of Nigerians residing legally in the country.

According to the minister, recent demonstrations in cities including Durban created tension among foreign nationals, forcing some Nigerians to close their businesses and remain indoors for safety reasons. She revealed that the Nigerian government was closely monitoring developments and had begun arrangements for the voluntary evacuation of citizens willing to return home amid fears of escalating violence.

Ojukwu also expressed concern over reports of intimidation, discrimination and the alleged killing of Nigerians in South Africa, calling for thorough investigations and justice for affected victims. The minister further disclosed that complaints had emerged involving Nigerian children and mixed-nationality families allegedly facing bullying and verbal abuse in schools.

The latest diplomatic tension comes amid renewed anti-migrant sentiments in South Africa, where foreign nationals are often accused by protesters of contributing to unemployment, crime and economic hardship.

Nigeria and South Africa maintain strong diplomatic and economic ties as two of Africa’s leading economies, but relations between both countries have occasionally been strained by repeated xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African migrants.

South African authorities have reportedly assured the Nigerian government that steps are being taken to prevent further violence and protect foreign nationals living in the country.