XNOPHOBIA ATTACKS: AND URGENT APPEAL TO THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OF NIGERIA ON THE SAFETY OF NIGERIAN STUDENTS IN SOUTH AFRICABy: Comr Aneke kenechukwu NANS VP EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

 

In the face of rising tensions and disturbing reports of xenophobic violence, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), through its Vice President for External Affairs, Comrade Aneke Kenechukwu, has issued a strong and timely appeal to the Federal Government of Nigeria to take immediate and decisive action to safeguard Nigerian students in South Africa.

This urgent call comes amid renewed concerns over the safety and well-being of Nigerians abroad, particularly students who have increasingly become vulnerable to hostility, discrimination, and targeted attacks. According to the student body, these developments not only threaten lives but also contradict the long-standing ideals of African unity, cooperation, and shared progress.

Nigerian students in South Africa now live under a cloud of fear and uncertainty, unsure of their safety in an environment that has become increasingly unpredictable. As representatives of Nigeria’s future and contributors to national development, their protection is not just important—it is imperative.

Speaking on behalf of NANS, Comrade Aneke Kenechukwu emphasized that the Federal Government must rise to its responsibility by taking swift diplomatic steps to engage South African authorities. He called for firm assurances that Nigerian citizens, particularly students, will be protected and that those responsible for acts of violence will be brought to justice.

The association also urged the government to activate all necessary diplomatic and emergency response mechanisms to monitor the situation closely and provide immediate support for affected students. This includes the provision of safe shelters, accessible communication channels, and financial assistance where needed.

In addition, NANS strongly recommended the development of a coordinated evacuation strategy for Nigerian students who wish to return home, ensuring they are not left exposed to further danger.

While reiterating its belief in diplomacy as the most effective tool, the student body stressed that such engagement must be proactive, firm, and result-driven. According to the statement, the lives of Nigerian students must not be subjected to delays or bureaucratic bottlenecks.

The association further called for collaboration between the government, student organizations, diplomatic missions, and international bodies to ensure that no Nigerian student is left stranded or vulnerable during this critical period.

“The time to act is now,” the statement concluded. “Every moment of delay places innocent lives at greater risk.”

Signed:

✍️ Comr. Aneke Kenechukwu

Vice President, External Affairs

National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)