The Federal Government has indicated that it may take the issue of recurring xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa to the African Union (AU) in a bid to secure a lasting solution to the problem.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, disclosed this on Thursday during an appearance on Prime Time, a programme on Arise Television. He stressed the need for African nations to strengthen efforts to safeguard the lives and property of all residents, regardless of nationality.

Enikanolaiye expressed concern over the persistent attacks on African migrants in South Africa, warning that such incidents threaten the spirit of unity, solidarity, and brotherhood that underpins relations among African countries.

According to him, Nigeria will continue to engage South African authorities at various levels to ensure the safety and protection of its citizens.

“When leaders openly encourage violence against people of other nationalities, it is completely unacceptable,” he said. “We will continue to remind the South African authorities of their responsibilities. Our engagement will take place at all levels—from officials to the highest level of government—to ensure that Nigerians are not subjected to harassment and violence.”

The minister added that Nigeria may seek broader continental intervention through the African Union, describing the recurring attacks as an issue that extends beyond bilateral relations and has become an African concern.

“You cannot claim African leadership while taking actions that undermine the continent’s solidarity and brotherhood,” he said. “We urge African leaders to do more to protect the lives and property of not only their citizens but also Nigerians and other Africans residing in South Africa.”

Also reacting to the development, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, condemned the attacks and called for decisive action.

Speaking on Politics Today, a programme on Channels Television, Dabiri-Erewa described the situation as troubling and regrettable, particularly given the ideals of African unity and cooperation.

“It is terrible, disappointing, and painful,” she said. “Enough is enough. What is particularly concerning is the perception that the authorities are not doing enough. There is a need for stronger security measures and accountability for those responsible.”

She urged the South African government to take more concrete steps to address xenophobic violence and ensure the safety of foreign nationals living in the country.