CPPE warns against retaliation over xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa

THE Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) has condemned the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, warning against retaliatory measures targeting South African businesses operating in Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Tuesday signed by CPPE’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Muda Yusuf, the organisation described the attacks as troubling, noting that many Nigerian migrants were reportedly among the victims. The organisation said the violence contradicts the ideals of African solidarity and pan-African cooperation.

According to the CPPE, the attacks are largely driven by worsening economic and social conditions in South Africa, including rising unemployment, poverty, inequality, youth frustration, weak public service delivery, and governance challenges.

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The economic policy advocacy group noted that many perpetrators wrongly direct their frustrations at African migrants, especially those perceived to be economically successful in retail trade, informal businesses, and service-related activities.

CPPE said Nigerians appear particularly vulnerable because of their strong entrepreneurial presence in South Africa’s informal economy.

“Nigerian traders, professionals, and service providers are generally resilient, competitive, and economically active. Unfortunately, this has created resentment among some locals who wrongly believe that migrants are taking over economic opportunities and jobs,” the statement said.

The organisation also faulted weaknesses in policing, intelligence gathering, and law enforcement in South Africa, stressing that the South African government has a responsibility to protect all residents, including Nigerians and other African migrants.

It called for stronger policing, improved intelligence operations, prompt prosecution of offenders, and clear political messaging against anti-migrant rhetoric to prevent future attacks.

The CPPE, however, cautioned the Nigerian government against adopting extreme retaliatory measures such as targeting South African investments, revoking licences of South African firms, or nationalising South African-owned assets in Nigeria.

According to the organisation, such actions would be counterproductive and could damage bilateral relations, weaken investor confidence, and undermine African economic integration.

The group noted that major South African companies operating in Nigeria, including MTN Group, Shoprite Holdings, MultiChoice Group, and Standard Bank Group, have contributed significantly to employment generation, financial inclusion, government revenues, and consumer welfare.

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“Disrupting these investments would not only hurt the affected companies but would also adversely impact Nigerian workers, suppliers, service providers, and consumers who depend on these businesses,” CPPE said.

The organisation urged the Nigerian government to intensify diplomatic engagement with South African authorities to ensure the protection of Nigerians living in the country while preserving mutually beneficial economic relations.

It also called on South Africa to address the structural issues fuelling social tensions, particularly unemployment, inequality, weak service delivery, and institutional weaknesses.