The Federal Government has condemned the resurgence of anti-African and anti-migrant sentiment in South Africa, warning that retaliatory measures against the country remain a possibility if attacks and hostility toward Nigerians and other African nationals persist.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, expressed concern over the growing wave of xenophobic campaigns targeting undocumented migrants, saying Nigeria would not ignore actions that threaten the safety and dignity of its citizens abroad.
“Retaliation is not off the table,” the minister said, stressing that while Nigeria remains committed to diplomacy and constructive engagement, it reserves the right to take appropriate measures to protect its nationals.
Her remarks come amid mounting concern over anti-migrant sentiment in South Africa, where Nigerians and other African migrants have increasingly become the focus of protests and campaigns demanding the removal of undocumented foreigners.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu described the trend as disturbing and inconsistent with the spirit of African solidarity and regional integration. She urged South African authorities to uphold the rights of all residents and ensure that migrants are not subjected to discrimination, intimidation, or violence.
The minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful coexistence among African nations but warned that continued targeting of Nigerians could strain bilateral relations between the two countries.
Nigeria and South Africa maintain extensive diplomatic and economic ties, with both countries playing leading roles on the African continent.
However, recurring episodes of xenophobic violence and anti-migrant rhetoric have periodically tested relations between Africa’s two largest economies.
