The Nigerian community in South Africa has raised concerns over rising insecurity risks facing foreign nationals, reporting that about 105 Nigerians have been killed over the past seven years in incidents linked to recurring xenophobic violence. The claim was made in a joint statement by the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) and the Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA).
According to the groups, the situation reflects persistent instability in the operating environment for migrants, many of whom are engaged in small businesses, trade, and other informal economic activities across different sectors of the South African economy. They warned that renewed attacks could further disrupt livelihoods and weaken cross-border economic participation.
The statement, signed by NUSA and NICASA leaders Smart Nwobi and Frank Onyekwelu, comes amid fresh reports of violence targeting Nigerians and other African nationals. Stakeholders say the developments could heighten investor and diaspora concerns, with potential implications for remittances, informal trade networks, and broader economic relations between both countries.
