Abike Dabiri Erewa has revealed that South Africa is yet to sign a proposed Memorandum of Understanding aimed at protecting Nigerians and other Africans from xenophobic s, despite discussions lasting for six years.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission made the disclosure during an online discussion organised by The Progressive NG titled “Leveraging Diaspora Strength for Nigeria’s Next Phase of Growth.”
According to Dabiri Erewa, the proposed agreement known as the Early Warning Signal Mechanism would require South African authorities to respond quickly whenever Nigerians are threatened during xenophobic violence or related crises.
She explained that once the agreement is signed, it would become legally binding on South African authorities to intervene immediately and protect Nigerians facing danger. She also stated that if any Nigerian is involved in criminal activity, the authorities would be expected to handle the matter according to the law.
Dabiri Erewa noted that the Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, has continued diplomatic discussions with South African officials in an effort to ensure the agreement is finalised.
The NiDCOM boss also appealed to Nigerians living in South Africa to remain peaceful and avoid actions that could escalate tensions during periods of unrest. She advised affected Nigerians to exercise caution and remain calm while diplomatic efforts continue.
She further disclosed that Ghana has requested that the issue of xenophobia in South Africa be discussed at the next meeting of the African Union.
The ongoing delay in signing the agreement continues to raise concerns among Nigerians abroad, especially following repeated incidents of xenophobic s targeting foreign nationals in South Africa over the years.
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