Some Nigerians in South Africa have reportedly taken up arms to defend themselves after rejecting a deadline to leave the country, amid rising tensions with anti-migrant groups advocating for the expulsion of foreign nationals. This situation has sparked global outrage, according to Daily Trust.

Nigerians in South Africa protested at the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria over delays in repatriation flights for citizens wishing to return home. This demonstration occurred after the federal government initiated the evacuation process amid rising concerns about xenophobic attacks, with a deadline set for June 30, according to African Examiner.

The second batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa has arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. A total of 66 returnees landed at approximately 8:50 p.m. on Wednesday as part of the federal government's evacuation program, which was approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in response to recent xenophobic attacks, according to African Examiner.

Allen Onyema, the Chairman of Air Peace, has urged Nigerians to think about pulling their investments from South Africa due to ongoing xenophobic attacks against African migrants. His call comes in light of repeated incidents that have raised concerns about the safety of Nigerians and other Africans in South Africa.

The Ugandan government has reported that three Ugandans died during recent anti-immigrant unrest in South Africa. Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo stated that efforts are underway to work with South African authorities to repatriate the bodies and provide support to the families of the deceased.

In early May 2026, anti-immigrant protests occurred in major South African cities, raising concerns about rising xenophobia in post-apartheid South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa urged citizens to show solidarity with their African neighbors, while foreign governments expressed their discontent. Police were deployed to manage the situation and prevent violence during the demonstrations, which featured participants in traditional Zulu attire, as seen in Johannesburg on April 29, 2026.