Buhari backs FG’s plans to protect Nigerians in South Africa

President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari has endorsed steps taken so far by the Nigerian government to protect the country’s citizens from the wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

In a statement released in Abuja on Saturday, General Buhari said that Nigeria’s Head of Mission in Pretoria had taken the right steps by advising the Nigerian community in South Africa to close their shops, stay home and keep out of trouble, while ensuring that they obey the laws of their host country.

“We equally understand that the South African government is making efforts to bring an end to this unfortunate situation,” General Buhari said. “In the meantime, Nigerians in South Africa should abide by the words of caution extended them by their government representative in Pretoria.”

General Buhari also commended the Nigerian government for its decision to monitor the situation in South Africa and evacuate its citizens at any sign of escalation.

 

“I am happy to see that the Nigerian government is very well aware of its responsibilities to its citizens in South Africa,” General Buhari said.

 The President-elect noted that the unfolding events in South Africa is sad considering Nigeria’s and South Africa’s friendly relation since the end of apartheid.