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Former presidential candidate and leader of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has held high-level talks with South African ministers and political leaders over growing concerns surrounding immigration, youth unemployment, insecurity, and tensions involving African foreigners in South Africa.

Obi disclosed this in a statement posted on his X handle following a series of meetings in Cape Town, where he engaged key South African government officials and party leaders on strengthening regional cooperation and peaceful coexistence between Nigeria and South Africa.

The former Anambra State governor said he met with South African Minister of Home Affairs, Mr. Leon Schreiber; Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Mr. Velenkosini Hlabisa; and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Mr. Gayton McKenzie.

According to Obi, discussions during the meetings were “productive and candid,” centering on the challenges confronting both countries, especially migration pressures, economic hardship, youth unemployment, and security concerns fueling tensions against African migrants in South Africa.

He stressed that Nigeria and South Africa, regarded as two of Africa’s most influential nations, must deepen dialogue and cooperation in addressing common continental problems.

“I firmly believe that Nigeria and South Africa, both prominent African nations, must enhance dialogue, bolster cooperation, and seek solutions based on justice, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law,” Obi stated.

The former Labour Party presidential candidate also urged leaders and citizens across the continent to embrace responsible leadership, compassion, and restraint amid rising social and economic pressures.

He noted that all parties involved in the discussions agreed on the need to promote lawful conduct, reject violence and hate, and allow democratic institutions to resolve grievances through constitutional means.

Obi further emphasized that Africa’s future prosperity depends on unity, economic inclusion, and the protection of the dignity of Africans regardless of where they reside on the continent.

“The progress of Africa hinges on our ability to create unity, foster economic inclusivity, invest in our communities, and uphold the dignity of every African, no matter where they live,” he added.

The meetings come against the backdrop of recurring tensions and attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, a development that has repeatedly strained relations between Pretoria and several African countries, including Nigeria.