Nigeria has urged South Africa to take stronger measures to prevent xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other African migrants, as repeated violence strains diplomatic relations.

Nigerian Foreign Affairs Minister Sola Enikanolaiye highlighted persistent 'Afrophobic attacks' dating back to 1995, with at least 98 Nigerians killed since 2022.The comments come amid rising anti-immigrant protests in South Africa, where undocumented migrants have faced attacks and looting.

Nigerian officials reported 1,490 Nigerians evacuated since the latest wave of violence, accusing the South African government of potential complicity due to alleged police inaction.

While South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa's administration denies condoning xenophobia, Nigeria emphasizes the need for due process over mob justice.

The dispute underscores tensions between Africa's most industrialized economy and its neighbors, with both nations grappling with migration challenges and economic pressures.

The situation raises critical questions about state responsibility and the protection of foreign nationals in a region marked by complex socio-political dynamics.