President Bola Tinubu has raised concerns over repeated xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against Africans and other foreign nationals in South Africa.
According to Instablog Naija, the President also recently embarked on a three-week vacation after months of intensive government activities, with the Presidency saying he needs time to rest and recharge ahead of a busy political period.
Tinubu’s concerns over South Africa were presented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the 21st Extraordinary Session of the African Union Assembly in Luanda, Angola.
The President wants African leaders to give the issue greater attention and include it in discussions at the 40th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly scheduled for January 2027.
“Nigeria wishes to express its concern over the recurring xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against Africans and other nationals in South Africa,” Tinubu said.
He acknowledged South Africa’s right to enforce its immigration laws but stressed that such enforcement should not put other Africans at risk. Tinubu said the recurring attacks threaten African solidarity, unity and peaceful coexistence.
He called for stronger measures to address xenophobia and Afrophobia through dialogue, preventive diplomacy and collective action. The President’s intervention comes as concerns continue over the safety of African nationals living and doing business in South Africa.
Tinubu also addressed Africa’s wider security challenges during the AU meeting. Nigeria backed the Luanda Action Plan, with the President arguing that preventing conflicts is more effective and sustainable than waiting until violence breaks out.
He also warned that the growing use of foreign military forces, mercenaries and private defence contractors could weaken Africa’s control over its own peace and security efforts. Meanwhile, the Presidency has shed more light on Tinubu’s decision to take a three-week vacation.
Presidential Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, said the President had been heavily occupied with governance over the past six to seven months. Dare said Tinubu needed the break to rest and “refuel” before months of increased political activity ahead of the 2027 elections.
He added that the President would remain in touch with developments in Nigeria despite being away from the country. According to Dare, Tinubu would continue receiving briefings from government officials and monitoring important national issues during his vacation.
The Presidency has also maintained that government operations would continue while the President is away.
Elom Fortunate Chiemerie is junior staff at modern crux that covers news on international politics, sports news and entertainment News
