“I am happy to see that the Nigerian government is very well aware of its re­sponsibilities to its citizens in South Africa,”; Gen. M. Buhari backs the Nigerian government.

The President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, has expressed  support to the Federal Gov­ernment on the steps taken so far to protect the coun­try’s citizens from the wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

Gen Buhari, in a statement said that Nigeria’s Head of Mission in Pretoria had taken the right steps by advising the Nigerian community in South Africa to close their shops, stay at home and keep out of trouble, while ensur­ing that they obey the laws of their host country.

“We equally understand that the South African gov­ernment is making efforts to bring an end to this unfortu­nate situation,” General Bu­hari said. “In the meantime, Nigerians in South Africa should abide by the words of caution extended them by their government representa­tive in Pretoria.”

General Buhari also commended the Nigerian government for its decision to monitor the situation in South Africa and evacuate its citizens at any sign of es­calation. “I am happy to see that the Nigerian government is very well aware of its re­sponsibilities to its citizens in South Africa,” General Bu­hari said.

The President-elect further expressed sadness over the unfolding events in South Africa, recalling Nigerian and South African friendly relationship since the end of apartheid