By Gabriel Manyati
Tensions between Nigeria and South Africa have escalated sharply as the Nigerian government signals it may impose tough retaliatory actions against South African nationals and businesses operating in the country.
This development follows repeated reports of violence, looting, and harassment targeting Nigerian citizens and other black African migrants in South Africa.
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed deep frustration with the treatment of Nigerians, stating that her government is actively considering punitive measures. These could include the closure of South African-owned enterprises and the potential expulsion of South African residents from Nigerian territory.
Speaking to journalists, the minister highlighted the selective nature of the hostility, noting that attackers are primarily targeting black African migrants while sparing others.
“Nigerians are embedded within South African communities, and it has become a challenge to guarantee their safety,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu said. She criticised South African authorities for not doing enough to protect victims, with reports of police standing by during incidents of shop looting, arson, and intimidation. Many Nigerians have faced attacks on their businesses, homes, and even children in schools.
The minister emphasised Nigeria’s significant historical contributions to South Africa’s liberation from apartheid, including substantial financial support, scholarships, and training for anti-apartheid fighters. This context has deepened the sense of betrayal felt in Abuja.
Over 120 South African companies currently operate successfully across key sectors in Nigeria such as telecommunications, retail, finance, and hospitality, generating substantial profits without facing similar harassment.
In response to the crisis, Nigeria is accelerating plans to repatriate affected citizens. More than 130 individuals have already registered for voluntary evacuation, with flights expected to bring hundreds more home in the coming days. The government has dismissed claims that most victims are undocumented migrants, stressing that many are legitimate residents and entrepreneurs.
This latest wave of xenophobic unrest in South Africa coincides with local government elections, where some politicians have been accused of exploiting anti-migrant sentiments to appeal to voters frustrated by economic hardships. Incidents have been reported in major cities including Johannesburg and Durban, resulting in deaths, injuries, and widespread property damage.
Nigerian lawmakers have called for strong diplomatic and economic responses, urging the executive to protect national dignity.
Analysts warn that any escalation could harm bilateral trade relations, which have historically been robust despite periodic strains. South African firms like MTN and Shoprite have significant investments in Nigeria, employing thousands and contributing to economic growth. Conversely, Nigerian businesses and professionals in fields such as education and services add value in South Africa.
Diplomats from both nations continue engagements, but trust appears eroded. Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that while any final decision on retaliation rests with the president and legislature, the option remains firmly under consideration and has not been ruled out.
As communities on both sides brace for potential fallout, calls for calm, dialogue, and mutual respect grow louder. The situation underscores deeper challenges of migration, economic inequality, and integration across the African continent. Nigeria’s firm stance reflects a determination not to tolerate contempt toward its citizens abroad, especially given its own hospitality toward foreign investors.
The coming weeks will prove critical in determining whether diplomacy can de-escalate the crisis or if punitive steps will reshape relations between Africa’s two largest economies.
