By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal Government has questioned the treatment of Nigerians in South Africa despite significant South African investments in Nigeria. Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu raised the concern on Thursday in a statement signed by her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Magnus Eze. She spoke while addressing the ongoing anti-migrant attacks against Nigerians and assured that all registered citizens would be evacuated before the June 30 deadline. The government also confirmed it is engaging South African authorities through diplomatic channels.
Minister Highlights South African Investments in Nigeria
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said Nigeria hosts more than 120 South African companies across several sectors.
She listed major businesses such as MTN Group, MultiChoice, Stanbic IBTC Holdings and Protea Hotels.
According to her, these companies operate freely without facing discrimination.
She argued that Nigerian authorities do not demand proof of nationality from South African workers. Likewise, officials do not seize their businesses or shops.
The minister described the contrasting treatment of Nigerians in South Africa as unacceptable.
“As I indicated before, there are these huge conglomerates. By the way, there are over 120 South African companies operating in Nigeria.
“Nobody is asking them to provide proof of identity. Nobody is asking South African staff working there whether they are South Africans or Nigerians, and nobody is taking over their shops or businesses.
“But this is happening to Nigerians in South Africa. So, I think that at some point, we really have to review the options available to us,” she said.
Anti-Migrant Attacks Damage South Africa’s Reputation
The minister said anti-migrant vigilante groups have damaged South Africa’s image across Africa and globally.
She noted that the attacks undermine the pan-African legacy built by the late Nelson Mandela.
According to her, the growing perception of xenophobia has already affected the country’s international reputation.
She added that some concerts have been cancelled while conferences have also been called off because of security concerns.
“South Africa has been stained with the stigma of being a xenophobic country. This is not something I think they will be comfortable with in the long run,” she said.
Nigeria Raises Concern Over Delayed Safety Agreement
Odumegwu-Ojukwu revealed that South Africa declined to activate a Memorandum of Understanding signed with Nigeria in October 2025.
The agreement established an early warning mechanism to protect citizens of both countries during periods of tension.
However, South African authorities later argued that officials who signed the document lacked the authority to make it legally binding.
The minister said the delay has weakened efforts to safeguard Nigerians living in South Africa.
Nigeria Continues Evacuation of Citizens
The minister disclosed that the evacuation programme is already in progress.
She confirmed that the first batch of 258 Nigerians arrived safely in Lagos on June 11.
The returnees were received by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport.
She added that about 1,000 Nigerians have registered for evacuation.
Consequently, more than 742 citizens are expected to return home before June 30.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed that every Nigerian willing to return should receive immediate assistance.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the President remains concerned about reports of discrimination and attacks targeting Nigerians and other African migrants.
She stressed that Nigeria will continue diplomatic engagement while considering other lawful measures where necessary.
Other African Countries Also Evacuating Citizens
The minister disclosed that Ghana, Malawi, Zimbabwe and Mozambique have also started evacuating their citizens from South Africa.
She said the growing number of evacuations reflects increasing concern over the safety of foreign nationals.
Federal Government Pledges Continued Protection
Odumegwu-Ojukwu assured Nigerians abroad that the Federal Government remains committed to protecting their lives and welfare.
She added that any future action against South Africa would follow constitutional procedures and due legislative process.
The minister also expressed concern for Nigerians married to South Africans and their children, saying many have lived in the country for years and deserve protection.
