President Muhammadu Buhari arrived in South Africa on Wednesday for a state visit following outbreaks of xenophobic violence at home and abroad. Johannesburg has sparked tensions between Africa's major economic powers.
The presidential plane landed at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria about 10 minutes after 9pm local time.
He was received by a delegation including senior government officials and other dignitaries.
During his state visit, the Nigerian president is scheduled to meet with host country President Cyril Ramaphosa.
President Buhari and President Cyril Ramaphosa will meet today to discuss strengthening trade ties and political cooperation as both countries struggle to revive their stagnant economies. However, recent violence targeting foreigners, including Nigerians, in the country threatens to dominate negotiations.
Mr Buhari was received by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor upon his arrival at the Waterkloof military base in Pretoria.
President Buhari will also attend meetings of the Bilateral Commission, where important agreements will be signed, along with President Ramaphosa.
The President will similarly attend business meetings and town hall meetings with Nigerians in South Africa before returning to Nigeria on Friday.