Peter Obi has met with South African ministers and political party leaders over immigration concerns and tensions involving African foreigners in the country.
Mr Obi, who is the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election, arrived in South Africa on Friday for an international conference.
In a post shared on X on Saturday, the former Anambra State governor said he also met with Nigerians in Cape Town to understand the immigration challenges they face.
According to him, he later held discussions with South African officials on issues affecting both countries.
“I had the opportunity to meet Mr Leon Schreiber, the South African Minister of Home Affairs; Mr Velenkosini Hlabisa, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs; and Mr Gayton McKenzie, the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture,” he said.
Obi said the discussions focused on migration, economic challenges, youth unemployment, security and tensions involving African foreigners in South Africa.
“Our discussions were open and productive, addressing the pressing issues impacting both countries,” he stated.
He added that Nigeria and South Africa must strengthen cooperation and promote peaceful coexistence.
“I strongly believe that Nigeria and South Africa must enhance dialogue, increase cooperation, and pursue solutions rooted in justice, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law,” he said.
Peter Obi also called for restraint and peaceful conduct from both leaders and citizens.
“We collectively emphasised the need for law-abiding behaviour, the importance of avoiding violence, resisting hate or provocation, and allowing lawful institutions to handle grievances through democratic and constitutional means,” he added.
He said Africa’s future depends on unity, economic inclusion and respect for the dignity of Africans across the continent.
