Nigeria’s appointment of Ita Enang as ambassador to South Africa has taken on urgent importance following renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other foreign nationals. Enang, a seasoned politician who has served in the Federal House of Representatives, the Senate, and as a senior special assistant to the president, was recently named Nigeria’s top envoy to Pretoria. Yet he has not assumed his post, and observers warn that delays risk worsening tensions and leaving Nigerians vulnerable.
The process began with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s nomination of Enang, followed by Senate screening and confirmation. Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs then submitted an agrément request to South Africa, seeking approval for his posting. That approval is still pending, and until it is granted, Enang cannot deploy or present his credentials to South Africa’s president. Without this step, he remains ambassador-designate, unable to fully represent Nigeria.
Public voices in Nigeria have grown louder in urging the government to fast-track the process. Many argue that with xenophobic violence flaring again, Nigeria needs a strong diplomatic presence in Pretoria to protect its citizens and engage South African authorities directly. Social media commentary reflects frustration, with users stressing that the absence of a fully installed ambassador leaves Nigerians exposed and sends the wrong signal about Nigeria’s commitment to its nationals abroad.
International attorney Asukwo Mendie Archibong Esq. has strongly criticized the delay, urging South Africa to expedite agrément approval for Enang. His intervention echoes the urgency felt not only by ordinary Nigerians but also by legal and diplomatic advocates who see the gap in representation as a dangerous vulnerability.
Diplomatic delays are not unusual, often caused by political sensitivities, administrative bottlenecks, or strained relations between countries. But analysts argue that Nigeria cannot afford such delays now. With tensions high and Nigerians facing renewed threats, the government must intensify efforts to secure South Africa’s agrément and expedite Enang’s deployment.
Nigeria and South Africa share a complicated relationship as Africa’s two largest economies. They cooperate on trade and continental leadership but have clashed over migration and xenophobia. Past attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, particularly in 2019, triggered diplomatic protests and strained ties. Those memories remain fresh, and the current violence has reignited calls for stronger protections.
For Nigerians living in South Africa, safety remains a pressing concern. Reports of harassment, assaults, and targeted attacks have unsettled communities, prompting appeals for government intervention. Nigerian associations in South Africa have repeatedly asked Abuja to strengthen consular support and press Pretoria for accountability. Without an ambassador in place, those appeals risk losing urgency.
South Africa’s government has pledged to address xenophobia, but critics argue enforcement has been inconsistent. Nigerian officials insist that a top diplomat on the ground is essential to monitor developments, engage with local authorities, and reassure citizens. Enang’s political experience and familiarity with legislative and executive processes make him a strong candidate to navigate these challenges.
The Nigerian public sees his appointment as more than routine diplomacy. Many believe his presence in Pretoria would symbolize Nigeria’s seriousness in defending its citizens and maintaining regional stability. Calls for urgency have come from commentators and ordinary Nigerians who fear that delays could embolden perpetrators of violence.
Nigeria’s government now faces a clear choice: accelerate the process and ensure Enang takes his seat without further delay, or risk deepening mistrust among citizens and straining ties with South Africa. The stakes are high, and the urgency is undeniable. For Nigerians in South Africa, the presence of a capable ambassador could mean the difference between vulnerability and reassurance in uncertain times.
