Tinubu Urges ECOWAS to Take United Stand Against Afrophobic Attacks in South Africa

President Bola Tinubu has called on West African leaders to unite in condemning the recent Afrophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa, describing the violence as unacceptable and contrary to the ideals of African unity.

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Lungi, Sierra Leone, Tinubu urged member states to present a common African position against xenophobia and ensure that attacks on fellow Africans do not go unanswered.

"One United African Voice"

According to the President, ECOWAS should collectively condemn the attacks and take the issue to the African Union, sending a strong message that intolerance against Africans is unacceptable regardless of where it occurs on the continent.

Tinubu noted that Nigeria has already evacuated more than 1,490 citizens from South Africa in seven separate batches following the violence and remains ready to work with regional partners to protect affected citizens.

Beyond Xenophobia: A Call for Stronger Regional Cooperation

While addressing the summit, the Nigerian leader also reaffirmed the country's commitment to regional integration, peace, security and economic cooperation across West Africa.

He urged ECOWAS to accelerate the implementation of the ECOWAS Compact for the Future of Regional Integration, describing it as a roadmap for building a stronger, more prosperous and people-centred regional bloc.

Tinubu also highlighted the need for:

• Stronger cooperation against terrorism and insecurity.

• Increased regional trade and economic integration.

• Investment in digital technology and innovation.

• Greater opportunities for women and young people.

• Stronger ECOWAS institutions built on transparency and accountability.

Regional Security Remains a Priority

The ECOWAS summit comes at a time when West Africa continues to grapple with terrorism, political instability and economic challenges.

Tinubu stressed that dialogue and solidarity among member states remain essential to preserving regional stability, particularly as the bloc seeks to maintain engagement with countries that have experienced political upheaval in recent years.

Growing Concern Over Afrophobic Violence

The President's remarks follow renewed reports of attacks on Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa, prompting widespread concern across the continent.

The incidents have reignited calls for stronger diplomatic engagement and greater protection for African nationals living and working outside their home countries.

Tinubu said Africa's shared history of liberation and cooperation should serve as a reminder that discrimination against fellow Africans undermines the continent's unity and collective progress.

Looking Ahead

As ECOWAS leaders conclude their summit, Nigeria hopes the regional bloc will adopt a stronger collective stance against Afrophobic attacks while continuing to deepen cooperation on security, economic development and regional integration.

The meeting is expected to shape discussions on the future direction of ECOWAS at a time when West Africa faces some of its most significant political and security challenges in decades.