Xenophobia: President Buhari to visit South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in October

Worried by the increasing rate of Xenophobic attacks on Nigerians residing in South Africa, President Buhari will in October pay his South African counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa,  a visit to discuss issues relating to the wellbeing of citizens and ways to further strengthen trade relations between the two largest African economies.

A statement released by the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Buhari, Garba Shehu today August 10th, says President Buhari had a telephone conversation with Ramaphosa today where he accepted an invitation to visit the country. According to the state, the visit is to further “consider recurrent issues concerning wellbeing of the Nigerian community in South Africa, and the need to promote trade and investment.’’

In an earlier letter of invitation, the South African President said:

“Your visit will provide an excellent opportunity for our sister countries to further consolidate and advance our strategic partnership and cooperation on matters of peace, security and socio-economic development in our continent. We will discuss issues of mutual interest and concern in global governance.’’

Nigerians have since called on President Buhari to take drastic measures towards putting an end to the increasing rate of xenophobic attacks on Nigerians residing in South Africa. Over 100 Nigerians have been killed in Xenophobic attacks since 2017.