MTN Nigeria CEO Karl Toriola Appeals for Calm as Xenophobic Attacks Erupt in South Africa

The Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola, has issued an urgent appeal to Nigerians following a fresh wave of violent attacks targeting foreign-owned businesses in South Africa.

Toriola spoke out amid widespread outrage after several shops and properties believed to be owned by Nigerian nationals were reportedly vandalised or looted in parts of Gauteng and the Western Cape.

Toriola emphasized the deep historical and economic ties between the two nations, urging restraint and warning that retaliation against South African businesses operating in Nigeria could have severe consequences for the economy and bilateral relations.

“These attacks are deeply regrettable and do not reflect the spirit of Ubuntu that we cherish,” Toriola was quoted as saying, “I am begging Nigerians to please exercise calm and not take the law into their own hands.”

The MTN Nigeria CEO stressed that the company has been engaging with both the Nigerian and South African governments to ensure the safety of its staff and the broader Nigerian community.

The call comes as the Nigerian government summoned the South African High Commissioner to demand explanations and assurances regarding the safety of Nigerians living in the country.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has maintained that it is monitoring the situation closely and is prepared to take further diplomatic steps if the attacks continue.

Meanwhile, Toriola reiterated the company’s commitment to Nigeria, stating, “We are not a South African company operating in Nigeria; we are a Nigerian company, and we stand with Nigeria.”

He also noted that while property has been damaged, there have been no confirmed reports of fatalities involving Nigerian nationals, though the company is urging its staff in South Africa to remain indoors.

Toriola’s appeal comes as MTN Nigeria continues to demonstrate its deep-rooted presence in the country, with the company investing heavily in network infrastructure and expansion.

The unfolding situation has reignited fears of a repeat of the xenophobic violence witnessed in 2019, which also led to widespread calls for boycotts of South African businesses in Nigeria.