Xenophobia: Buhari Set to Visit South Africa

• Presidency condemns renewed attacks against Nigerians and other African migrants.
• The statement says Buhari’s visit in October is meant to reinforce the strong bonds between the two countries.

President Muhammadu Buhari will be visiting South Africa in the wake of renewed attacks on Nigerians and other African migrants in the country.

According to the South African presidency, Buhari is expected to pay a state visit to South Africa in October.

iDONSABI.com had reported that there had been a spate of xenophobic violence in Johannesburg, South Africa’s financial capital caused tensions between the countries.

READ: Xenophobia: Why We Must Nationalise South African in Investment in Nigeria, Fani-Kayode Explains

According to reports, surrounding areas were rocked by a surge of deadly attacks against foreigners this week, many which were directed against Nigerian-owned businesses and properties.

This has led to reprisal attacks against South African firms in Nigeria, forcing the firms to temporarily close their outlets and closure of the country’s diplomatic mission ins Lagos and Abuja.

At least 10 people were killed in the violence and hundreds of shops destroyed.

According to the statement, Buhari’s visit is meant to “reinforce the strong bonds between the two countries and jointly develop responses to challenges affecting people and businesses in South Africa and Nigeria”.

READ: Passports of Majority of Nigeria Willing to Come Back Home Have Expired – Air Peace

South Africa which has been the second largest economy after Nigeria has been in the news for the wrong season as foreign workers are often victims of anti-immigrant sentiment where they compete against locals for jobs, particularly in low-skilled industries.

More than 420 people have been arrested since the violence flared up on Sunday.