JOHANNESBURG — The Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg has issued an urgent security advisory to Nigerian nationals residing in South Africa ahead of planned nationwide anti-foreigner protests today, May 4, 2026. The advisory follows reports of widespread mobilization by groups seeking to pressure the South African government to take action against both documented and undocumented migrants. In a statement released on Sunday, Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche confirmed that protest organizers allege foreign nationals are disproportionately benefiting from South Africa's resources. In Johannesburg, demonstrators are expected to congregate at Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown to present a memorandum to authorities, with potential disruptions anticipated in other major urban centers including Pretoria, Cape Town, and Durban.
The Consulate has urged all Nigerians to exercise extreme caution and prioritize their personal safety during the demonstration period. Nigerian nationals are strongly advised against engaging or confronting any demonstrators, and business owners—particularly those in high-risk zones—have been encouraged to consider closing their shops temporarily to prevent potential looting or vandalism. The mission assured the community that it remains in contact with South African law enforcement, which is expected to deploy personnel to maintain order and protect foreign nationals and their property.
This latest wave of unrest comes amid rising xenophobic tensions that have already prompted approximately 130 Nigerians to register for voluntary repatriation flights being arranged by the Federal Government. While South African authorities have vowed to protect all residents, the Nigerian government remains on high alert. Citizens are encouraged to remain calm, avoid known protest gathering points, and stay updated through official consular channels as the situation evolves throughout the day.
