Editorial
By: Femi Emmanuel
The recurring wave of xenophobic attacks and protests against Nigerians in some African countries should serve as a serious wake-up call to the Nigerian government and stakeholders across the continent. The growing hostility, often justified by claims that Nigerians are taking over jobs and economic opportunities, demands deep reflection on the state of governance and economic management in Nigeria.
For many years, Nigerians have continued to migrate abroad in search of better opportunities due to worsening economic hardship, unemployment, and limited prospects at home. Sadly, instead of finding safety and dignity, many have been subjected to humiliation, discrimination, violence, and, in extreme cases, death at the hands of fellow Africans.
This is not the first time Nigerians have suffered xenophobic attacks in African countries. Time and again, Nigerians have been brutally assaulted, stoned to death, or attacked with dangerous weapons over minor disagreements or mere prejudice. Businesses painstakingly built over several years have been destroyed, properties looted, and countless breadwinners killed. Beyond the physical destruction, many families have been left with the painful burden of grief, trauma, and economic hardship following the loss of their loved ones.
If bilateral and multilateral relations among African nations truly mean anything, governments across the continent must demonstrate commitment to protecting the lives and properties of foreign nationals within their borders. No grievance, regardless of its nature, should justify jungle justice, mob attacks, or the killing of innocent people.
More importantly, Nigeria must also look inward. If successive leaders had effectively harnessed the nation’s enormous economic potential and implemented people-oriented policies capable of creating jobs and sustainable opportunities, the mass exodus of Nigerians in search of survival abroad would not have reached its current alarming level. The persistent humiliation of Nigerians overseas is, in many ways, connected to the failure of governance and the inability to build a functional economy that guarantees hope for citizens.
This is not the time for blame games or political rhetoric. Rather, it is a moment for sober national reflection on the recurring attacks against Nigerians abroad and the urgent need to rebuild Nigeria’s institutions and economy. Only a responsive and effective system of governance can reduce the desperation that forces many citizens to seek uncertain futures in foreign lands.
Although no nation can survive in isolation, countries that continually display hostility and disregard for the lives of foreigners cannot genuinely be regarded as friendly partners. Every sovereign nation has the responsibility to ensure the safety and protection of all residents, irrespective of nationality.
Furthermore, African countries must understand that economic cooperation and regional integration are essential for mutual survival and development. No country is entirely self-sufficient. Therefore, whenever disputes or grievances arise, they must be resolved through lawful and diplomatic channels rather than violence and bloodshed.
The Nigerian government must urgently intensify diplomatic engagement with countries where Nigerians face frequent xenophobic attacks while also pursuing long-term domestic reforms that address unemployment, poverty, insecurity, and economic instability. Until these foundational issues are addressed, Nigerians may continue to face vulnerability and humiliation abroad.
Africa must rise above hatred, prejudice, and senseless violence. Human life remains sacred, and no individual deserves to be attacked or killed because of nationality.
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