The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to safeguard Nigerian students in South Africa following renewed xenophobic tensions.
The Vice President, External Affairs of NANS, Comr. Aneke Kenechukwu, made the call in a statement issued on Wednesday in Pretoria, South Africa.
Kenechukwu expressed concern over what he described as a disturbing pattern of hostility and targeted attacks against foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians and other Africans in South Africa.
He said the development posed serious threats to the lives of Nigerian students, many of whom, according to him, now live in fear and uncertainty.
“Nigerian students in South Africa are young ambassadors and future leaders of our nation. Their safety must be treated as a national emergency,” he said.
Kenechukwu urged the Federal Government to immediately engage South African authorities through diplomatic channels to secure firm guarantees for the safety of Nigerian citizens, especially students.
He also called for the activation of all diplomatic mechanisms to monitor the situation and ensure that perpetrators of xenophobic violence are brought to justice.
The NANS leader further appealed to the government to provide emergency support for affected students, including safe shelters, dedicated hotlines and financial assistance where necessary.
According to him, there is also the need for a coordinated evacuation plan for Nigerian students willing to return home to prevent further exposure to risks.
“Diplomacy remains the most responsible path, but it must be proactive, firm and result-oriented. Nigerian lives must not be left to bureaucratic delay,” he said.
Kenechukwu added that the Federal Government should collaborate with NANS, Nigerian diplomatic missions and international partners to ensure that no Nigerian student is left stranded or vulnerable.
He emphasised that urgent action was required, noting that every delay could endanger lives.
