President Bola Tinubu has formally appealed to the African Union to address recurring xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks in South Africa. Speaking at the 21st Extraordinary Session of the AU Assembly in Luanda, Angola through Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu warned that these incidents threaten continental solidarity and peaceful coexistence. He formally requested that the issue be added to the agenda for the 40th Ordinary Session of the Assembly in January 2027 to establish coordinated protective measures for all African nationals. 

Continental Security and External Interference

Beyond addressing xenophobia, the Nigerian government endorsed the Luanda Action Plan as a practical roadmap for conflict prevention, emphasizing that proactive measures are more sustainable than post-crisis management. Tinubu cautioned against relying on foreign military forces, mercenaries, and external private defense contractors, noting that foreign intervention undermines African-led security solutions. Furthermore, he urged international arms-exporting nations to tighten regulations and prevent weapons from falling into the hands of terrorists and non-state armed groups. To bolster regional security independently, Nigeria expressed support for sustainable funding for AU peace operations and the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2719.

Rationale Behind the President's European Vacation

In domestic updates, the Presidency addressed public inquiries regarding President Tinubu's three-week vacation to Europe. Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, clarified that the break is designed to give the President a chance to rest and recharge following months of rigorous governance and major economic and security reforms. The timing also coincides with the lead-up to the 2027 general election. While governance will continue uninterrupted, the brief hiatus prepares the administration for months of intensive campaigning.