Peter Obi Meets South African Ministers, Party Leaders Over Immigration, Security Concerns

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has held high-level discussions with South African ministers and political party leaders on issues surrounding immigration, regional cooperation, youth unemployment, security, and the peaceful coexistence of Africans in South Africa.

Obi disclosed this following separate meetings with South Africa’s Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber; Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa; and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie.

According to Obi, the meetings came after an engagement with Nigerians residing in Cape Town, during which concerns bordering on migration, economic pressures, rising tensions involving African foreigners, and broader regional challenges were discussed.

He described the conversations with the South African leaders as “productive and candid,” noting that both Nigeria and South Africa must continue to strengthen dialogue and cooperation in addressing shared continental concerns.

Obi stressed that as two leading African nations, Nigeria and South Africa have a responsibility to pursue solutions anchored on justice, mutual respect, and the rule of law.

“In difficult times, leaders and citizens alike must demonstrate responsible leadership, compassion, and restraint,” he stated.

The former Anambra State governor also emphasized the need for law-abiding conduct among citizens, urging all parties to reject violence, hatred, and provocation while allowing democratic and constitutional institutions to resolve grievances peacefully.

He further noted that Africa’s progress depends largely on unity, economic inclusion, investment in communities, and the protection of the dignity of Africans irrespective of where they reside on the continent.

Obi reaffirmed the importance of stronger regional partnerships capable of fostering peace, stability, and sustainable development across Africa.