The Federal Government has indicated that retaliatory measures against South Africa are being considered following renewed reports of harassment and intimidation targeting Nigerians living in the country.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, expressed the government’s position while addressing concerns over the treatment of Nigerians in South Africa.
According to the minister, the Nigerian government is dissatisfied with how South African authorities and security agencies have handled incidents involving Nigerians and their businesses.
She stated that citizens and their properties had allegedly been subjected to harassment, looting, and attacks despite many of them operating legitimate businesses.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also noted that any decision regarding retaliation would require consideration at the highest level of government, stressing that such an option “is not off the table.”
The minister further referenced Nigeria’s historical support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle, describing current developments as disappointing in light of that relationship.
The remarks come amid ongoing arrangements by the Federal Government to evacuate Nigerians willing to return home from South Africa.
Authorities said documentation and screening processes involving both countries are ongoing as evacuation plans continue.