How much longer will they continue to kill Nigerians in South Africa?

Photo credit: CNN

Estimates from Nigerian government officials indicate that over 100 to 118 Nigerian nationals have been killed in South Africa over the years due to xenophobic attacks and anti-migrant violence.

Total Estimates: The Nigerian Senate and foreign ministry reports cite approximately 118 deaths linked to hate violence, mobs, and extrajudicial actions over recent multi-year periods.

Recent Increases: Ongoing tensions and protests have continued to add to the total, with additional citizens reported killed in 2026. 

Broader patterns of unrest and violence are documented on the Xenophobia in South Africa overview, while regional updates are tracked via reports like the Over 100 Nigerians Murdered Update. 

Nigerian officials state that a portion of these deaths involve extrajudicial actions by local security forces.

The recurring violence has led to diplomatic strain, temporary suspensions of official parliamentary visits, and bilateral talks between Nigeria and South Africa.

The recurring violence has led to diplomatic strain, temporary suspensions of official parliamentary visits, and bilateral talks between Nigeria and South Africa. 

"Over 30 Nigerians killed by South African police since 2022 and Nigeria's patience is running thin," the ambassador, Femi Fani-Kayode, declared.

In another development, Nigeria's parliament has suspended official visits to South Africa and ordered lawmakers to boycott South African-hosted legislative activities, ​citing reports of attacks on Nigerians and other African migrants ‌there.

 

By Olagunju, Success Taiwo