Peter Obi meets South African ministers, calls for stronger Nigeria-South Africa cooperation

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has called for stronger cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa following meetings with senior South African ministers and political leaders amid growing concerns over immigration, youth unemployment and tensions involving African migrants.

Mr Obi disclosed the meetings in a statement posted on his official Facebook page after engaging with members of the Nigerian community in Cape Town.According to the former Anambra State governor, he held discussions with Leon Schreiber, South Africa’s Minister of Home Affairs and a prominent figure in the Democratic Alliance; Velenkosini Hlabisa, leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP); and Gayton McKenzie, leader of the Patriotic Alliance.

He said the conversations focused on immigration, regional cooperation, economic pressures, security concerns and the increasing tensions faced by African foreigners living in South Africa.

“Our conversations were productive and candid, focusing on the current challenges that affect both countries — particularly those related to migration, economic strains, youth unemployment, security issues, and the rising tensions faced by African foreigners in South Africa,” Mr Obi stated.

He stressed that both countries, regarded as Africa’s largest economies and among the continent’s most influential political powers, must strengthen dialogue and pursue solutions rooted in justice, mutual respect and the rule of law.“I firmly believe that Nigeria and South Africa, both prominent African nations, must enhance dialogue, bolster cooperation, and seek solutions based on justice, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law,” he added.

Nigeria and South Africa share extensive diplomatic and economic ties dating back to Nigeria’s support for the anti-apartheid struggle.

However, relations between both countries have occasionally been strained by recurring xenophobic attacks targeting African migrants, including Nigerians, in parts of South Africa.

Over the years, violent incidents linked to anti-immigrant sentiment have triggered diplomatic tensions, public protests and retaliatory attacks on businesses in both countries.

Mr Obi said all parties involved in the discussions emphasised the need for peaceful coexistence, restraint and lawful conduct, warning against hate, violence and provocation.

“We collectively stressed the importance of law-abiding behaviour, avoiding violence, resisting hate or provocation, and allowing lawful institutions to address grievances through democratic and constitutional processes,” he said.

The former presidential candidate also argued that Africa’s future depends on deeper unity, economic inclusiveness and the protection of the dignity of Africans across the continent irrespective of nationality or location.