Nigeria consulate warns citizens ahead of South Africa anti-foreigner protests
Nigerian Consulate Issues Safety Advisory for Nationals in South Africa Ahead of Protests
The Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg has issued a safety advisory for Nigerian citizens residing in South Africa in anticipation of planned anti-foreigner protests scheduled for Monday, May 4, 2026.
The advisory, released on Sunday and signed by Consul General Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, urged Nigerians to remain vigilant in light of reports of coordinated demonstrations across all nine provinces.
According to the consulate, intelligence indicates that anti-foreigner groups are mobilizing residents via circulated messages to organize a nationwide shutdown aimed at urging authorities to act against foreign nationals. The groups contend that foreigners disproportionately benefit from South Africa’s resources and are demanding the removal of both documented and undocumented migrants.
Plans for street marches have been announced, aiming to compel foreign nationals to leave the country. While protests are anticipated in various regions, the consulate noted that specific assembly points have not been confirmed in most cities. However, in Johannesburg, demonstrators are expected to gather at Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown. The march is set to take place from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., with a memorandum to be presented to local authorities around noon.
Concerns regarding potential disruptions in major business districts, including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, and Durban, have been raised. The consulate has advised Nigerian nationals to exercise caution and to avoid confrontations with protesters. “All Nigerian nationals are strongly advised to avoid engaging demonstrators or confronting them,” the advisory stated, while urging citizens to stay informed through local media and take appropriate safety measures.
Additionally, Nigerian business owners have been encouraged to consider temporarily closing their establishments during the protest period, amid fears that foreign-owned businesses may be targeted.
