Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa

The Federal Government has said its planned meeting with South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner will serve as an opportunity to formally present Nigeria’s concerns and seek clarification over ongoing protests and reported attacks on Nigerians.

Speaking in an interview with Nigerian Tribune, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, confirmed that the engagement is aimed at addressing issues affecting Nigerians in South Africa through diplomatic dialogue.

According to the Ministry, the meeting, scheduled for Monday, May 4, 2026, in Abuja, will focus on recent developments that could impact bilateral relations, particularly demonstrations and alleged mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and their businesses.

Ebienfa stressed that the outcome of the talks would be communicated after discussions with the South African representative.

“I’m not going to tell you that one now. We say we don’t summon the person. So, anything that we agree on, we’ll inform you people,” he said.

He further explained that the meeting would allow Nigerian authorities to seek explanations from their South African counterparts on steps being taken to address the situation.

“The first is to ask, what is happening? What is the South African government doing about these issues? So, they will provide their own response. Whatever is agreed, then we will now inform the press,” Ebienfa stated.

The spokesperson also clarified that, in the absence of a substantive ambassador, the Acting High Commissioner would represent South Africa at the meeting.

“As you have seen now, the ambassador is on leave or they don’t have one currently, so it’s the Acting High Commissioner. The Permanent Secretary will meet with the High Commissioner to make the Nigerian position clear,” he added.

On media coverage, Ebienfa indicated that the meeting would likely be held behind closed doors, with an official statement or briefing to follow.

“It’s better for us to just meet and then issue a statement. Either we release it after, or maybe next day I will invite you people to tell you what was discussed,” he said.

The Ministry reiterated its call for calm among Nigerians, assuring that the government remains committed to protecting its citizens abroad while engaging South African authorities constructively.
By Kazeem Biriowo
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