President Bola Tinubu has called on African leaders to adopt a united approach in addressing recurring Afro-phobic attacks against African migrants in South Africa.
Tinubu made the appeal on Monday while addressing the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Abuja.
The President, who currently serves as Chairman of the regional bloc, described the attacks as unacceptable and inconsistent with the ideals of African unity and cooperation.
He urged ECOWAS member states to speak with one voice and engage South African authorities to ensure the protection of African citizens residing and conducting legitimate businesses in the country.
According to him, the safety and dignity of Africans across the continent must remain a collective responsibility, stressing that violence targeted at fellow Africans undermines regional integration efforts.
Tinubu also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to promoting peace, economic cooperation and stronger regional partnerships within West Africa.
The summit is expected to deliberate on a range of issues affecting the sub-region, including security challenges, economic integration, democratic governance and the implementation of protocols on the free movement of persons.
Leaders attending the meeting are also expected to review progress on regional development initiatives and strategies for addressing emerging threats across member states.
