Tinubu heads to AU, seeks action against xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for stronger continental action against recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa, urging the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to escalate the issue to the African Union (AU).

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Lungi, Sierra Leone, Tinubu condemned the attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals, describing them as unacceptable and inconsistent with the spirit of African unity.

The President said ECOWAS should place the matter before the next African Union summit to send a clear message that attacks against fellow Africans would not be tolerated.

“South Africa should be reminded that the freedom the country currently enjoys is due to the liberation efforts of African countries such as Nigeria,” Tinubu said, noting that the Nigerian government had already evacuated 1,490 citizens from South Africa in seven batches and remained ready to engage further on the matter.

His remarks come amid renewed concern over attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa, where Nigerians have repeatedly been among the victims of violence, looting and destruction of businesses. Citizens of Ghana, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Lesotho and Botswana have also been affected by similar incidents.

The President’s position follows recent comments by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who disclosed that the Federal Government was considering further diplomatic measures while the National Assembly reviews the situation. Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has also urged the government to seek legal redress before the African Court.

Beyond the xenophobia issue, Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional integration and welcomed the newly adopted ECOWAS Compact for the Future of Regional Integration, describing it as a blueprint for promoting economic growth, democratic governance and sustainable development across West Africa.

He pledged Nigeria’s continued support for initiatives aimed at removing trade barriers, improving cross-border infrastructure and facilitating the free movement of people, goods and services within the region.

On governance, Tinubu warned that insecurity, political instability and poor leadership continue to undermine development in West Africa. He stressed that good governance remains the most effective safeguard against unconstitutional changes of government and civil unrest.

“We must also avoid the temptation to tamper with constitutional term limits or exploit constitutional processes,” the President said.

Tinubu also reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for the proposed ECOWAS Counter-Terrorism Force, calling for stronger regional cooperation to combat terrorism, violent extremism and other security threats.

He further advocated greater investment in women and young people through education, entrepreneurship and leadership opportunities, while urging sustained dialogue with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to preserve regional unity and strengthen ECOWAS.

The summit also featured remarks by Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio and ECOWAS Commission President Omar Alieu Touray, who both emphasised the need for deeper cooperation, improved governance and stronger economic integration across West Africa.

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