Peter Obi has held a series of high-level meetings with senior South African government officials following concerns raised by Nigerians living in the country over safety, immigration tensions and social relations.
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate said the discussions centred on migration policies, regional cooperation, youth unemployment, and the growing strain affecting African migrants, particularly Nigerians residing in South Africa.
Obi disclosed that he met with South Africa’s Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber; Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa; and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie.
According to him, the meetings followed earlier engagements with members of the Nigerian community in Cape Town, where concerns over security, coexistence and the treatment of immigrants were reportedly raised.
Obi stressed the need for stronger diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and South Africa, insisting that both countries must work together to promote peace, lawful conduct and mutual respect among African citizens.
“We must continue to uphold dialogue, understanding and the rule of law in resolving issues affecting Africans across the continent,” he was quoted as saying.
The former Anambra State governor also called for restraint and peaceful engagement, warning against violence, hate speech and provocation.
According to him, Africa’s future depends largely on unity, economic inclusion and the protection of human dignity regardless of nationality.
“Violence and hostility should never replace lawful and democratic solutions,” Obi added.
The development has generated reactions on social media, with several Nigerians praising the meetings as a diplomatic effort aimed at protecting citizens living abroad and strengthening relations between two of Africa’s largest economies.
Nigeria and South Africa have long maintained strategic political and economic ties, although relations have occasionally been strained by incidents involving xenophobic attacks and disputes over immigration policies.
