Xenophobic Attack: Nigeria considers action against South Africa

The Nigerian government says it is considering taking retaliatory action against South Africa following continued xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living there.

The attacks have forced plans to evacuate more than 1,000 Nigerians who want to return home.

Many Nigerians in South Africa have reportedly been harassed, attacked, displaced, or lost their businesses and homes in repeated anti-foreigner attacks. Some have also been injured or killed.

Speaking in Abuja, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu said Nigeria is reviewing its options because of what she described as the persistent targeting of Nigerians.

When asked if retaliatory measures were being considered, she replied: “It is not off the table.”

She added that the decision would be made by the highest levels of government and the National Assembly.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed disappointment over South Africa’s treatment of Nigerians, noting that Nigeria played a major role in supporting South Africa during its struggle against apartheid.

She recalled that Nigeria provided financial support, educational opportunities, and political backing for South Africans during that period.

The minister said Nigerians are being unfairly targeted and rejected claims that many of those seeking evacuation are illegal migrants.

According to her, many Nigerians in South Africa are legitimate business owners whose shops have been looted or burned. Others have been intimidated, making it difficult for their children to attend school.

She also criticized South African authorities for not doing enough to stop the attacks or protect victims.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu said plans to evacuate affected Nigerians are progressing. President Bola Tinubu has directed that a presidential aircraft be deployed to bring willing Nigerians back home.

She explained that both Nigerian and South African authorities are carrying out screening and documentation processes before evacuees can leave.

The number of Nigerians requesting evacuation continues to rise as more people complete the required procedures.

The minister also announced that crisis response units have been set up at Nigeria’s diplomatic missions in South Africa to assist affected citizens.

She said the Federal Government is working with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other agencies to help returning Nigerians settle back into the country.

According to her, the government is committed to ensuring that evacuees receive the support needed for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.