The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a strong appeal to the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), urging them to spearhead a widespread campaign to safeguard migrant workers from escalating xenophobic violence in South Africa. In a letter dated May 7, 2026, NLC President Joe Ajaero expressed deep concern over recent attacks that have resulted in deaths and the destruction of businesses owned by African migrants.
Ajaero attributed the violence to deteriorating economic conditions and misguided government policies, emphasizing that workers across the continent should not be pitted against each other. He stated unequivocally that fighting for workers’ rights cannot coexist with allowing any segment of the working class to be targeted as prey.
The labour leader called on COSATU to undertake extensive educational initiatives within communities, unions, and workplaces to dispel the false narrative that migrants are responsible for job losses and poverty. He urged a definitive end to the racist belief that a fellow Black African from a neighboring country is an enemy.
The NLC also criticized South African security forces for their inadequate response, alleging that authorities have failed to provide necessary protection for migrants and their enterprises. Ajaero demanded full security mobilization to prevent further bloodshed, along with the arrest and prosecution of perpetrators. He further called on the South African government to ensure compensation for victims and their families.
Warning that xenophobia undermines labor solidarity across Africa, Ajaero noted that such divisions weaken collective bargaining power against employers. He proposed an emergency meeting of African labor organizations under the African Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation and the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity to develop coordinated strategies for migrant worker protection.
Concluding his remarks, Ajaero cautioned that unchecked xenophobic violence in South Africa could spread like a cancer across the continent, urging decisive and immediate action to halt its progression.