SA, Nigeria seek to ease tensions as Lamola raises crime and migration concerns
Diplomatic tensions between South Africa and Nigeria have come under renewed focus, as officials from both countries met in Abuja to address growing concerns around xenophobic attacks, crime, migration and the treatment of foreign nationals.
International Relations and Co-operation Minister Ronald Lamola led the South African delegation on Monday, acknowledging the historical ties between the two nations but stressing the need to address issues affecting bilateral relations.
The Department of International Relations and Co-operation (DIRCO) says in a statement that Lamola outlined three key areas of concern contributing to recent tensions, including the reported installation of an unrecognised traditional ruler, allegations of criminal activity involving some foreign nationals, and challenges faced by law enforcement agencies during crime prevention operations.
The minister raised concerns over the purported installation of an “Igbo King” in the Eastern Cape in March 2026, saying it had caused widespread public concern.
He said the matter was particularly sensitive as South Africa continues to strengthen the constitutional role of traditional leadership.
Lamola also highlighted concerns about organised crime, illicit drug trafficking and financial fraud involving some foreign nationals, including Nigerian citizens.
He said as of 7 July 2026, more than 500 Nigerian nationals had been processed through South Africa’s criminal justice system for various offences.
The minister stressed that addressing criminality should not translate into targeting an entire nationality.
"Regrettably, these incidents have fueled negative perceptions surrounding Nigerian nationals living in South Africa over the years."
"Addressing these challenges firmly, fairly, and within the bounds of the law is vital for the well-being of both our nations."
Lamola said South Africa had a responsibility to enforce its laws while protecting the rights of all people living within its borders.
"President Cyril Ramaphosa and the government he leads have been outspoken against any intolerance."
He added that the country had the right to address unlawful migration and criminal activity.
"South Africa must deal decisively with irregular migration, undocumented immigrants — including acts of criminality."
The discussions took place amid growing tensions linked to anti-migrant protests in South Africa, with some demonstrations turning violent.
Nigeria’s junior foreign affairs minister, Sola Enikanolaiye, raised concerns about attacks targeting Nigerian nationals, including those with valid documentation.
"We have records of Nigerians who have legitimate papers to remain in South Africa, yet they have been attacked."
He questioned whether authorities were doing enough to protect foreign nationals.
"We could see some mob actions in which we saw the police watching, as if they are helpless to address this situation."
South African authorities have previously said the country is confronting broader challenges linked to criminal networks, including drug trafficking, fraud and the illegal occupation of properties.
Lamola highlighted concerns about hijacked residential and commercial buildings in urban centres such as Hillbrow in Johannesburg and Sunnyside in Pretoria, saying these situations have affected both South Africans and foreign nationals.
He said criminality must be addressed through law enforcement rather than allowing communities to take matters into their own hands.
The talks come after a series of protests in South Africa where some groups have blamed foreign nationals for unemployment, crime and pressure on public services.
Nigeria and Ghana have been among the countries expressing concern about the treatment of their citizens.
Despite the disagreements, both sides sought to emphasise the importance of their relationship, referring to each other as “brothers” and recalling Nigeria’s role in supporting South Africa’s struggle against apartheid.
Lamola said the two countries share a long-standing partnership that must be protected.
The minister said cooperation between South Africa and Nigeria remains essential in tackling shared challenges.
"The well-being of both our nations depends on our ability to work together, address challenges honestly, and uphold the principles of fairness, justice and respect."
The two governments are expected to continue engagements aimed at improving security cooperation, protecting citizens and reducing tensions between South Africans and foreign nationals.
*Additional reporting by AFP
