Buhari To Visit Ramaphosa In South Africa Over Xenophobic Attacks On Nigerians

President Muhammadu Buhari and South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, have agreed to meet in October to discuss issues relating to the wellbeing of their citizens and ways to further strengthen trade relations between the two largest African economies.

In a statement released by the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Buhari, Garba Shehu yesterday, 10th August 2019, says President Buhari had a telephone conversation with Ramaphosa today where he accepted an invitation to visit the country.

”In a telephone conversation with the South African leader at his country home in Daura, Katsina State, President Buhari accepted an invitation to visit the (South Africa) country,” the presidential aide said.

According to the state, the visit is to further “consider recurrent issues concerning well being of the Nigerian community in South Africa, and the need to promote trade and investment.’’

Shehu also quoted an earlier letter of invitation by the South African President saying:

“Your visit will provide an excellent opportunity for our sister countries to further consolidate and advance our strategic partnership and cooperation on matters of peace, security and socio-economic development in our continent. We will discuss issues of mutual interest and concern in global governance.’’

Ramaphosa said the meeting would provide an opportunity to inaugurate a bi-national commission for both countries to “effect the strategic decisions taken in 2016 to elevate it to the level of Heads of State.’’

Nigerians have since called on President Buhari to take drastic measures towards putting an end to the increasing rate of xenophobic attacks on Nigerians residing in South Africa. Over 100 Nigerians have been killed in Xenophobic attacks since 2017.