The Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce (NSACC) has called for calm, dialogue, and enhanced bilateral cooperation following the recent wave of xenophobic unrest in South Africa.
In a statement released on Tuesday in Lagos, the Chairman of NSACC, Dr. Ije Jidenma, expressed deep concern over the violence that has affected various communities, businesses, and livelihoods in South Africa. The unrest has particularly impacted Nigerians and other African nationals living in South Africa, along with the broader South African business and investment environment.
Jidenma highlighted the steps taken by the Federal Government to address the crisis, including diplomatic engagements, legislative actions, investigations, and voluntary evacuations for Nigerian nationals.
“As an organisation committed to fostering strong economic and cultural ties between Nigeria and South Africa, we emphasise that moments like this call for restraint and constructive engagements,” Jidenma stated.
She reminded both nations of their long-standing relationships built on mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared vision for the prosperity of Africa. The NSACC chairman urged that these core values be upheld, particularly in times of tension.
Jidenma appealed to governments, community leaders, civil society organizations (CSOs), and citizens to prioritize peaceful dialogue and uphold the rule of law. She stressed the importance of ensuring the safety and protection of all residents, regardless of nationality, as a means of maintaining trust and stability.
Additionally, she called for continued collaboration between Nigerian and South African authorities to address the underlying causes of the unrest, prevent further escalation, and strengthen mechanisms for conflict resolution and social cohesion.
“We remain committed to working alongside our partners to promote unity, economic resilience, and a renewed focus on the shared opportunities that bind our two nations,” Jidenma concluded.
