Xenophobic Attacks on Nigerians in South Africa and Their Implication for Nigeria-South Africa Diplomatic Relations: An Exploratory Study, 2008-2024

Emmanuel Ochogwu, Shaibu Umar Abdul and Ruth Caleb Luka
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Emmanuel Ochogwu: Department Political Science and International Relations, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja
Shaibu Umar Abdul: Department Political Science and International Relations, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja
Ruth Caleb Luka: Department Political Science and International Relations, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2025, vol. 9, issue 8, 896-910

Abstract: This study explores the complex and sensitive issue of xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, examining the root causes, consequences and implications of these attacks on diplomatic relations between the two countries, 2008-2024. Relative deprivation theory, realism and constructivism postulations were used as frameworks of analysis. However, constructivism theory was adopted in the study. Purposive sampling method was adopted in order to solicit necessary information from respondents who are knowledgeable or familiar with the topical issue under discourse. However, findings reveal that xenophobic attacks in South Africa has produced mixed reactions, some have argued that the situation was not handled as suppose. The study finds that political, economic and socio-cultural diplomacies were negatively affected in the relationship between Nigeria and South Africa due to xenophobic attacks on Nigerian by South Africa. Furthermore, the study discovers that South Africa’s xenophobic attacks on Nigerians led to a mistrustful and unpleasant diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and South Africa, a decline in the spirit of African brotherhood, and an externally negative image of South Africa as a xenophobic state. All of these factors influence and shape Nigeria’s diplomatic relations and policies towards South Africa. Based on the findings, the research recommended that there should be high level diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and South Africa as a way out of strengthening and restoring their unbecoming diplomatic relations that had existed between the both countries. Awareness regarding the true international rights of immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers is necessary for both South African governments and citizens. Nigeria and South Africa should have a suitable Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining expectations for immigrants in both countries as well as how they should be treated. Any infractions of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two countries must result in a permanent fine and other sanctions.

Date: 2025
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