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.

The Nigerian federal government has responded following the deaths of two Nigerians in a xenophobic attack in South Africa, addressing the situation with a message directed to President Cyril Ramaphosa's administration.

Nigeria's government has threatened to take action against South Africa following the murder of two Nigerians, accusing South African police of being complicit in these killings. This response comes amid ongoing concerns regarding xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.

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.

Nigeria has escalated its diplomatic response to xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other Africans in South Africa, warning that it may take unspecified measures against Pretoria if the violence continues. This shift from a previously quiet stance comes in light of ongoing targeted attacks and deaths of Nigerian nationals in South Africa, according to Ripples Nigeria.

Zari Hassan has assured her fans that she and her family are safe in South Africa, despite the ongoing xenophobic attacks in the country. As a precautionary measure, she has temporarily closed her businesses.