South Africa has raised concerns with the Nigerian government over the controversial installation of an unrecognised ‘Igbo King’ in the Eastern Cape, the involvement of some Nigerian nationals in organised crime, and attacks on law enforcement officers during a high-level diplomatic mission to Abuja. Lamola also raised concerns over the alleged involvement of some Nigerian nationals in organised crime, including illicit drug trafficking and financial fraud. Dirco said that, as of July 7 2026, more than 500 Nigerian nationals had been processed through South Africa’s criminal justice system for various offences. “Regrettably, these incidents have fuelled negative perceptions surrounding Nigerian nationals living in South Africa over the years. Arrests of Nigerian nationalsDuring the talks, both delegations discussed the arrests and prosecution of Nigerian nationals in South Africa.