The Nigeria Police Force has called for calm across the country following reports of xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians in South Africa, saying officers are ensuring that Nigerians are safe in South Africa.
It warned that any attempt to launch retaliatory attacks against South African citizens, businesses or diplomatic interests in Nigeria would be considered a criminal offence.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, said the Federal Government is actively engaging relevant authorities through diplomatic, intelligence and security channels to address the situation and protect the interests of Nigerians both at home and abroad.
The police intervention comes amid growing concerns over alleged attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa and fears that the incidents could lead to tensions or reprisals within Nigeria.
According to the police, security and intelligence agencies conducted a comprehensive review of the situation during the Joint Intelligence Board meeting held under the chairmanship of National Security Advisor Nuhu Ribadu on May 18, 2026.
According to the statement, the meeting assessed the security implications of the developments and considered appropriate response measures.
Following the review, the Force assured Nigerians that there is no immediate cause for concern, stressing that government institutions are actively managing the situation.
“The Federal Government is actively engaging relevant authorities and stakeholders through diplomatic, intelligence and security channels to resolve the situation peacefully and protect the interests of Nigerians at home and abroad,” the statement said.
Police acknowledged public concerns over the welfare and safety of Nigerians living in South Africa, but urged citizens to abide by the law and avoid taking matters into their own hands.
The force warned that violence, intimidation, destruction of property, hate speech, or any conduct that endangers public peace and national security will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
It stressed that Nigeria remains a nation governed by the rule of law and that all persons lawfully residing within the country, regardless of nationality, are entitled to legal protection.
The police further cautioned that any attempt to target South African citizens, diplomatic facilities, businesses, or other legitimate South African interests in Nigeria will attract the full severity of the law.
“Any attempt to target South African citizens, diplomatic facilities, businesses or other legitimate interests within Nigeria will be considered a criminal act and will be dealt with in accordance with existing laws,” the statement said.
The Nigeria Police Force revealed that it has strengthened collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies and put in place additional security measures across the country.
These measures include increased surveillance around critical national infrastructure, foreign missions and other strategic locations considered vulnerable to potential attacks.
Adequate personnel have also been deployed to maintain public order and ensure safety of life and property, the force said.
Police also expressed concern over the spread of misinformation and inflammatory content, particularly on social media platforms, warning that unverified reports and provocative messages could escalate tensions and undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Citizens were urged to avoid sharing false, inflammatory or inflammatory information and to rely only on verified sources for updates on the situation.
Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining peace and security across the country, the Nigeria Police Force encouraged Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant and continue their lawful activities without fear.
