The Federal Government has said it may consider retaliatory measures in response to the recurring xenophobic attacks against Nigerians living in South Africa, as concerns continue to mount over the safety of citizens in the country.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, stated that the option remains under consideration, noting that many Nigerians have expressed frustration and anger over what they perceive as persistent hostility toward Black migrants in South Africa.
According to the minister, the government is closely monitoring developments and remains committed to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerians abroad.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasized that while diplomatic engagement remains the preferred approach, Nigeria would not rule out appropriate measures should the situation worsen or if attacks on its citizens continue unabated.
She also disclosed that the planned evacuation of Nigerians who have indicated a willingness to return home has been delayed due to ongoing documentation, verification, and screening procedures being conducted in collaboration with South African authorities.
The minister explained that the verification process is necessary to establish the identities and eligibility of those seeking evacuation, adding that the exercise must be completed before airlift arrangements can proceed.
Despite the delay, she assured that the Federal Government is finalizing logistics for the repatriation operation and remains committed to ensuring the safe return of affected Nigerians.
The latest developments come amid renewed reports of xenophobic violence, intimidation, and anti-immigrant sentiment in parts of South Africa, prompting hundreds of Nigerians to seek assistance from Nigerian diplomatic missions.
Relations between Nigeria and South Africa have periodically been strained by xenophobic incidents, with previous outbreaks resulting in deaths, injuries, destruction of property, and the displacement of foreign nationals, including Nigerians. Government officials say efforts are ongoing to address the current situation through diplomatic channels while safeguarding the interests of Nigerian citizens.
