The Federal Government of Nigeria has called on South Africa to take firm and immediate action to stop ongoing violence targeting Nigerians and other foreign nationals in the country.

This appeal was made during a meeting in Abuja between Dunoma Ahmed, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Lesoli Machele.

Speaking to journalists, the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the meeting was convened in response to recent xenophobic attacks and protests in parts of South Africa. According to him, some protesters have been calling for foreigners—especially black immigrants—to leave the country.

Ebienfa described circulating videos and reports from South Africa as disturbing, noting that they contradict the long-standing friendly relationship between both nations.

He also revealed that Nigeria’s High Commission in Pretoria and Consulate in Johannesburg are closely monitoring the situation and sending regular updates to the government.

The Nigerian government further expressed concern over the reported deaths of two Nigerians, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, allegedly linked to encounters with South African security agencies. Authorities say the circumstances surrounding their deaths have raised serious questions about the conduct of security personnel.

While acknowledging statements by South African officials condemning violence, looting, and extrajudicial actions, Nigeria emphasized the need for these commitments to be backed by concrete action on the ground.

The Federal Government also called for the urgent activation of an existing memorandum of understanding (MoU) between both countries. The agreement is designed to enable early warning systems, improve communication, and help prevent escalation of threats against Nigerians living in South Africa.

Nigeria urged South Africa to take decisive steps to restore confidence among Nigerians residing there and ensure they can live safely and with dignity.

Ebienfa also mentioned that the government is aware of a recent protest by a group of Nigerians at the South African High Commission in Abuja. He appealed for calm and reassured that Nigeria remains committed to protecting diplomatic missions in line with international obligations.

United States President Donald Trump has said the ongoing Middle East conflict could end within weeks, expressing confidence that the war may be concluded “very soon.”

Speaking at the White House, Trump told reporters that U.S. forces could withdraw from Iran within “two weeks, maybe three,” adding, “we’re finishing the job.” He also indicated that a diplomatic agreement could still be reached before any final military outcome.

Earlier, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran possesses “the necessary will” to end the conflict, provided key conditions are met, including guarantees against future aggression.

The remarks from both leaders raised hopes for a resolution to the month-long crisis, prompting a surge in global financial markets. On Wall Street, the Nasdaq Composite rose 3.8 percent, while the S&P 500 gained nearly three percent.

Asian markets also posted strong gains, with major indices in Seoul, Tokyo, and Taipei rising sharply, alongside advances in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Sydney, Singapore, Manila, and Jakarta.

Despite the optimism, oil markets remained volatile amid concerns over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 20 percent of global oil and gas supplies pass. Trump stated that the United States would not intervene to reopen the strait if it were blocked, suggesting other nations should take responsibility.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signaled continued military operations, stating that Israel would press on with its campaign against what he described as a “terror regime.”

The economic fallout from the conflict has intensified, with U.S. gasoline prices surpassing $4 per gallon for the first time in four years and inflation pressures rising in Europe. Analysts warn that sustained high oil prices—currently above $100 per barrel—could further strain global economic growth.

Additional tensions emerged following reports that the United Arab Emirates is considering supporting efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, potentially under a United Nations mandate, which could mark a significant escalation.

As diplomatic signals remain mixed, analysts caution that uncertainty surrounding the conflict and global energy supplies is likely to persist in the near term.

Authorities in the United Kingdom have announced road closures and temporary airspace restrictions ahead of the arrival of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a state visit hosted by Charles III.

President Tinubu is expected to begin the visit on Wednesday, March 18, accompanied by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu. An official reception for the Nigerian leader is scheduled to take place at Windsor Castle.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Thames Valley Police said it is working closely with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household, and other security partners to ensure the visit proceeds smoothly and securely.

As part of the heightened security arrangements, authorities confirmed that the permanent airspace restrictions over Windsor Castle will be extended on March 18 from 7:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.

Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of the police force’s Joint Operations Unit said the airspace limitations form only one aspect of a comprehensive security operation planned for the high-profile diplomatic engagement.

“The air restrictions are just one part of our robust security operation for the state visit of Nigerian President Tinubu next week, with many measures you will see and others you will not,” Hall said.

He added that the police have extensive experience managing security during royal events in Windsor, noting that significant planning and preparation have gone into the operation.

Hall also warned that the authorities would strictly enforce the restrictions, stressing that any violation would constitute a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could lead to arrest.

Security deployment during the visit will include specialised police units such as search teams, mounted officers, road policing personnel, and armed officers. These units will operate alongside neighbourhood policing teams and resources from the Project Servator.

Officials said additional safety measures would include Windsor’s extensive closed-circuit television network and hostile vehicle mitigation barriers positioned around key locations.

Authorities have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity by contacting police through 101 or speaking directly with officers on duty. Emergencies should be reported through the 999 service.

Meanwhile, road closures and parking restrictions are set to take effect from Tuesday, March 17, with temporary traffic disruptions expected in and around Windsor during the visit.

Thames Valley Police added that it is working in coordination with the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services to enforce the temporary flight restrictions. Individuals with legitimate reasons to operate drones during the restricted period have been advised to seek prior clearance from the police.