ABUJA — Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on African leaders to take a firm stand against xenophobia, warning that rising attacks on fellow Africans threaten unity, peace and regional cooperation across the continent.
Shettima made the call while representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Lungi, Sierra Leone.
Condemning recent Afro-phobic attacks in South Africa, the Vice President described such acts as unacceptable and urged African nations to speak with one voice in rejecting intolerance.
“Nigeria condemns, in the strongest terms, the recent attacks on its citizens and other Africans in the Republic of South Africa,” he said.
He stressed that xenophobia undermines the ideals of African solidarity and regional integration, noting that countries must uphold shared values of unity and mutual respect.
According to Shettima, ECOWAS should collectively escalate the issue to the African Union (AU) to reinforce a united continental position against such attacks.
“ECOWAS should present a united voice in this condemnation and table the matter before the next session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the African Union,” he stated.
The Vice President also reminded South Africa of the historic role played by African nations, including Nigeria, in its liberation struggle, stressing that such sacrifices should not be forgotten.
“South Africa should be reminded that the freedom it currently enjoys is the result of the sacrifices and liberation efforts of African countries, including Nigeria,” he added.
Shettima disclosed that Nigeria has already evacuated over 1,490 of its citizens from South Africa in response to the crisis and remains ready to take further diplomatic steps to protect its nationals.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to promoting peace, unity and cooperation across Africa, urging leaders to prioritise policies that strengthen regional integration and safeguard the dignity of all Africans.
