South Africa has reaffirmed its historical ties with Nigeria, saying the country remains grateful for Nigeria’s support during the anti-apartheid struggle.The commitment was made on Monday in Abuja by Ronald Lamola, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation.
He was meeting with Sola Enikanolaiye, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, to discuss rising concerns over attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.Lamola told the Nigerian delegation that Pretoria has not forgotten the sacrifices Nigeria made to help dismantle apartheid. He noted that the solidarity shown by Nigeria during the liberation period continues to shape relations between both nations.
The meeting comes amid renewed worries over xenophobic violence targeting African migrants, including Nigerians, in South Africa. Both ministers agreed on the need for stronger collaboration to protect citizens and prevent further incidents.Enikanolaiye stressed that Nigeria expects concrete steps to ensure the safety of its nationals abroad. The two sides said diplomatic channels will remain open, with follow-up engagements planned to address the crisis and strengthen bilateral cooperation.
