By George Ozalla
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for deeper engagement and stronger cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa following growing concerns over migration tensions, youth unemployment, security challenges, and the treatment of African foreigners in South Africa.
Obi made the call after a series of high-level engagements in Cape Town with senior South African government officials and political leaders, following consultations with members of the Nigerian community in the country.
According to him, the discussions centred on immigration-related concerns, regional collaboration, economic pressures, and the need to strengthen peaceful coexistence between citizens of both countries.
The former Anambra State governor disclosed that he held separate meetings with South African Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber; Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party, Velenkosini Hlabisa; as well as Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture and leader of the Patriotic Alliance, Gayton McKenzie.
Obi described the engagements as candid and productive, noting that all parties acknowledged the increasing pressures facing both countries, particularly in relation to migration, unemployment among young people, economic hardship, and security concerns that have continued to fuel tensions in parts of South Africa.
He maintained that Nigeria and South Africa, as two of Africa’s most influential nations, carry a major responsibility in promoting regional stability, democratic values, and African unity through sustained dialogue and cooperation.
The former presidential candidate further stressed that difficult moments require responsible leadership and restraint from both leaders and citizens, insisting that grievances must be addressed through lawful and constitutional channels rather than violence or hate-driven actions.
He said the meetings also emphasised the need for law-abiding conduct, peaceful engagement, and mutual respect among citizens, regardless of nationality, while cautioning against provocation, xenophobic rhetoric, and actions capable of worsening tensions across African communities.
Obi further stated that Africa’s future depends largely on the continent’s ability to strengthen unity, promote economic inclusion, invest in people, and protect the dignity of Africans wherever they reside.
Recent years have witnessed repeated concerns over attacks and hostility directed at foreign nationals, including Nigerians, in parts of South Africa, often linked to economic frustrations, unemployment, and immigration disputes. Diplomatic engagements between both countries have continued over the years as authorities seek lasting solutions to recurring tensions and broader regional migration concerns.
