FOSSU National Senate condemns reported xenophobic attacks in South Africa, urges stronger diplomatic action and warns Nigerian youths against irregular migration.
The leadership of the Federation of Oyo State Students’ Union (FOSSU) National Senate has expressed deep concern over reports of xenophobic attacks against Nigerian citizens in the Republic of South Africa, which allegedly resulted in the evacuation of more than 1,500 Nigerians.
The Senate strongly condemns all forms of xenophobia, discrimination, intimidation, and violence directed at Nigerians and other African nationals. Such actions undermine the ideals of African unity, peaceful coexistence, and regional cooperation.
FOSSU extends its sympathy to all Nigerians affected by the incident and commends the Federal Government for ensuring the safe return of the evacuees through the appropriate agencies.
The development further underscores the importance of discussions held during the FOSSU National Senate’s courtesy visit to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Oyo State Command, on July 2, 2026. During the visit, the Senate commended the Service for its dedication to border security, migration management, passport administration, and the protection of Nigeria’s national interests.
Representing the Comptroller of Immigration Service, Oyo State Command, CIS I.U. Nwosu, Deputy Comptroller of Immigration U.P. Dabrinze enlightened the delegation on the statutory responsibilities of the Service and emphasized the need for Nigerians travelling abroad to comply with the immigration laws and regulations of their host countries.
A major highlight of the engagement was the Service’s warning against irregular migration. The officers advised students and youths to embrace only legal and documented means of travelling abroad, noting that irregular migration often exposes individuals to exploitation, detention, and deportation.
The Service also reiterated the popular cautionary expression: “If you JAPA, you will JAPADA.”
The Immigration Service urged intending migrants to obtain valid travel documents, secure appropriate visas, and familiarize themselves with the immigration policies, labour laws, educational requirements, and cultural expectations of their destination countries.
In light of the reported events in South Africa, the FOSSU National Senate calls on the Governments of Nigeria and South Africa to strengthen diplomatic efforts aimed at protecting the lives, rights, and properties of Nigerians residing lawfully in South Africa. The Senate also urges the African Union and relevant international bodies to take decisive action against xenophobic attacks across the continent.
Furthermore, FOSSU appeals to Nigerian students and youths to remain worthy ambassadors of the country by obeying the laws of their host nations, respecting constituted authorities, and projecting a positive image of Nigeria at all times.
The FOSSU National Senate remains committed to promoting lawful migration, civic responsibility, national security awareness, and youth development. It will continue to educate students on the dangers of irregular migration while advocating policies that protect Nigerians both at home and abroad.
Together, let us reject xenophobia, embrace African solidarity, and build a continent where every African can live, learn, work, and thrive without fear of discrimination or violence.