South Africa Xenophobia: Tinubu Demands ECOWAS Action, Says Intolerance Must End

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on West African leaders to present a united front in condemning xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other Africans in South Africa, describing such acts of intolerance as unacceptable.

Tinubu made the call on Sunday during the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government held in Freetown, Sierra Leone.

The President, who was represented at the summit by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said ECOWAS must speak collectively against attacks directed at Africans living in South Africa, warning that silence could weaken efforts towards continental unity and integration.

According to a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha, Tinubu informed regional leaders that Nigeria had already taken steps to protect its citizens affected by the situation.

He disclosed that the Nigerian government had evacuated more than 1,490 citizens in seven batches from areas considered unsafe and remained prepared to take further measures where necessary.

“Nigeria condemns, in the strongest terms, the recent attacks on its citizens and other Africans in the Republic of South Africa,” Tinubu said.

The President urged ECOWAS to adopt a common position and escalate the matter to the next session of the African Union (AU) Assembly, stressing that the continent must collectively reject discrimination and violence against Africans.

“This would send a clear message that this type of intolerance is totally unacceptable under any guise,” he said.

Tinubu also reminded South Africa that its own freedom was achieved through decades of struggle supported by other African nations, including Nigeria.

“South Africa should be reminded that the freedom it currently enjoys is the result of the sacrifices and liberation efforts of African countries, including Nigeria,” he stated.

Beyond the xenophobia issue, Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening ECOWAS and supporting the newly developed ECOWAS Compact for the Future of Regional Integration.

The President said the framework represents a renewed commitment by member states to rebuild trust between citizens and institutions while ensuring that regional integration remains relevant amid changing global realities.

He said the Compact would help create a more resilient and prosperous West Africa by strengthening cooperation in areas such as security, trade, technology, infrastructure and governance.

Nigeria, according to Tinubu, remains committed to promoting peace, economic integration and democratic governance as one of ECOWAS’ founding members and largest economies.

Addressing security challenges across West Africa, Tinubu called for stronger collective action against terrorism, insecurity and unconstitutional changes of government.

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for the establishment of the ECOWAS Counter Terrorism Force and the strengthening of the ECOWAS Standby Force to improve intelligence sharing, joint operations and preventive diplomacy.

The President also stressed the importance of maintaining constitutional order, respect for human rights and adherence to ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.

“Sustainable development cannot be achieved in an environment of insecurity and instability,” Tinubu said.

Tinubu further highlighted the importance of technology and innovation in shaping West Africa’s future, expressing support for initiatives aimed at creating a regional digital economy.

He said the proposed Digital Single Market, artificial intelligence frameworks, cybersecurity cooperation and improved digital infrastructure would create opportunities for entrepreneurship, education, financial inclusion and job creation, particularly among young people.

The President also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to reducing trade barriers, improving cross-border infrastructure and supporting the free movement of people, goods and services across the region.

Earlier, Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio, who chaired the summit before handing over leadership of the regional bloc, said the meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on ECOWAS’ future and assess its progress.

Bio said ECOWAS Vision 2050 remains focused on building a peaceful, integrated and prosperous West Africa driven by democratic governance and the energy of its people.

However, he acknowledged that changing global realities require the bloc to reassess its strategies and strengthen its ability to respond to emerging challenges.

He warned that climate pressures, economic disruptions and global supply challenges were placing increasing strain on countries across the region.

United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed pledged the UN’s continued support for ECOWAS and West African countries in addressing terrorism and other security threats.

She called for greater international backing for African-led solutions to regional challenges.

The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Alieu Touray, also reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to improving governance, accountability and policy coordination among member states.

A major highlight of the summit was the signing of the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) for the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline (AAGP) project, a major energy initiative expected to deepen cooperation among participating countries.