Nigeria considers retaliatory measures over xenophobic attacks in South Africa

The Federal Government has said Nigeria may consider retaliatory diplomatic and policy measures following renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, which have triggered evacuation plans for affected citizens willing to return home.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this while speaking with State House correspondents at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday.

She said the option of reciprocal action was not off the table, noting that any such decision would be taken at the highest levels of government, including the legislature.

According to her, while Nigeria remains committed to diplomacy, the country is unhappy with the treatment of its citizens in South Africa despite its historical support for the South African struggle against apartheid.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu recalled Nigeria’s past sacrifices, including financial support, educational assistance, and political solidarity during the anti-apartheid era, stressing that Nigerians were justified in expressing displeasure over recent developments.

She, however, clarified that Nigeria is not targeting other foreign nationals, but reacting specifically to the treatment of Africans, particularly black migrants, in South Africa.

The minister also confirmed that evacuation flights for Nigerian citizens were delayed due to documentation and screening processes being finalised in collaboration with South African authorities.

Over 1,000 Nigerians are currently undergoing verification under the repatriation arrangement, with officials working to conclude the exercise before rescheduling flights.

She added that arrangements for the evacuation of willing returnees are being completed, while further diplomatic steps remain under consideration.