The Federal Government has summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner following renewed reports of anti-foreigner protests and attacks targeting Nigerians and their businesses in South Africa.

In a statement on Saturday, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said the envoy has been invited to a high-level meeting scheduled for Monday, May 4, 2026, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

The ministry said the engagement is aimed at formally conveying Nigeria’s “profound concern” over recent developments, which it warned could strain diplomatic and economic relations between both countries.

The summons follows reports of protests in parts of South Africa involving groups allegedly targeting foreign nationals. Nigerian-owned businesses were said to have been affected in some of the incidents, raising concern in Abuja.

Authorities in Nigeria said discussions with the South African envoy will focus on the demonstrations and “documented instances of mistreatment” of Nigerian citizens, as well as attacks on their properties.

The situation has revived memories of previous waves of xenophobic violence in South Africa, which have repeatedly drawn condemnation from the Nigerian government and international partners.

While acknowledging public concern, the Federal Government urged Nigerians to remain calm as diplomatic efforts are underway to address the issue.

“The Ministry is aware of the growing discontent among Nigerians concerning the treatment of their nationals in South Africa. Nevertheless, it implores the Nigerian public to remain calm,” the statement said.

Nigeria and South Africa maintain strong bilateral relations, particularly in trade and regional cooperation, but recurring attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa have periodically placed strain on the relationship.

Officials say the outcome of Monday’s meeting is expected to be crucial in determining the next steps in managing tensions and preventing further diplomatic escalation.