Nigerians in South Africa have been issued an advisory about a nationwide anti‑foreigner protests planned for May 4, 2026, following an announcement by anti‑immigrant groups to stage a protest across all nine provinces, claiming foreigners are “benefiting more than citizens” and are demanding that all foreigners leave South Africa urgently.
A statement signed by the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey‑Uche, highlights Johannesburg as a major hotspot, with protesters expected at Mary Fitzgerald Square from 10 a.m. before submitting a memorandum at noon, and similar disruptions expected in Pretoria, Cape Town, and Durban.
Nigerians are advised to avoid protest routes, stay alert, and consider closing their businesses temporarily, as foreign‑owned shops may be targeted.
While South African authorities have been notified to deploy security measures, about 130 Nigerians have registered for voluntary repatriation flights.
