The Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties in Nigeria (FNYLPPN) has urged the federal government to step up diplomatic efforts to protect Nigerian citizens facing xenophobic attacks in South Africa, emphasizing the need for urgent action before a July 31 deadline. The group made the appeal after a formal meeting with the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations at the National Assembly in Abuja on Tuesday. The visit followed a letter submitted by the forum highlighting ongoing violence, destruction of businesses, and loss of livelihoods among Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa. The forum, led by its chairman Eze Onyebuchi, expressed appreciation for the Senate’s attention to the issue but stressed that appreciation must lead to concrete action.
Onyebuchi, speaking on behalf of Nigerian youths across political lines, reiterated the group’s firm stance and the July 31 deadline for the government to deliver tangible measures. He called for immediate diplomatic pressure on South African authorities, demanding legal, protective, and compensatory actions for affected Nigerians. The forum specifically urged the federal government to enhance consular services through Nigeria’s embassy in Pretoria and to seek intervention from regional bodies like the African Union and ECOWAS to combat Afrophobia. They also insisted on restitution for damaged properties and compensation for victims of the attacks.
The Senate Committee, chaired by Senator Aniekan Bassey, commended the forum for raising concerns through democratic and structured channels. Bassey acknowledged the government’s ongoing efforts, including evacuations, medical aid, financial support, and plans for compensation and repatriation of affected Nigerians. He assured the delegation that the committee would continue to prioritize the welfare of Nigerians abroad and work towards resolving the crisis. The forum welcomed these assurances but maintained that the government must act decisively within the set timeframe to prevent further loss of life and property.
The situation in South Africa has drawn increasing concern from Nigerian civil society and political leaders, with reports of violent attacks, looting, and arson targeting Nigerian-owned businesses and communities. The FNYLPPN’s intervention underscores the growing demand for stronger diplomatic and protective measures to safeguard Nigerians in the diaspora. As the July 31 deadline approaches, the group will continue to monitor government actions and hold authorities accountable. The outcome of this diplomatic push could set a precedent for how Nigeria responds to threats against its citizens abroad, shaping future policies on diaspora protection and international relations.
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