Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has held high-level discussions with top South African ministers and political party leaders over issues relating to immigration, regional cooperation, security, and peaceful coexistence between Nigerians and South Africans.
Obi disclosed that the meetings took place following his engagement with Nigerians living in Cape Town, where concerns surrounding migration, rising tensions involving African foreigners, and economic challenges were raised.
According to him, he met with Leon Schreiber, South Africa’s Minister of Home Affairs and a leading member of the Democratic Alliance; Velenkosini Hlabisa, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party; as well as Gayton McKenzie, the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture and leader of the Patriotic Alliance.
Obi described the discussions as productive and frank, noting that both sides focused on the shared challenges confronting Nigeria and South Africa, including migration pressures, economic hardship, youth unemployment, and security concerns.
He stressed the need for stronger dialogue and cooperation between both African nations, insisting that solutions must be rooted in justice, mutual respect, and the rule of law.
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“Nigeria and South Africa, as two major African nations, must continue to strengthen dialogue, deepen cooperation, and pursue solutions anchored on justice, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor also called on leaders and citizens of both countries to embrace responsible leadership, compassion, and restraint amid growing tensions affecting African foreigners in South Africa.
He further emphasized the importance of law-abiding conduct, rejecting violence and hate, and allowing democratic institutions to resolve grievances peacefully and constitutionally.
Obi maintained that Africa’s future development depends on unity, economic inclusion, community investment, and respect for the dignity of Africans regardless of where they reside on the continent.
