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FG Mulls Retaliatory Measures Against South Africa Over Xenophobic Attacks on Nigerians

The Federal Government is considering retaliatory measures against South Africa following repeated attacks on Nigerian citizens and businesses. Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu‑Ojukwu said Nigeria is “not happy” given the country’s sacrifices for South Africa’s liberation struggle.

She noted that the decision requires input from the National Assembly and is “not off the table.” President Bola Tinubu has also directed the immediate establishment of a crisis response unit at the Nigerian consulate in Johannesburg and mission in Pretoria. Repatriation of affected Nigerians is ongoing.

Key Points:

Retaliatory measures could include travel restrictions, economic sanctions, or visa bans.
Nigerian businesses in South Africa have been looted and burnt, causing huge financial losses.
Children of Nigerian residents are being intimidated in schools, forcing them to stay home.
South African authorities’ claim that affected Nigerians are illegal migrants is false, says minister.
Repatriation flights will bring distressed citizens home, but documentation processes are ongoing.

The government awaits legislative input while continuing evacuation efforts; a final decision on retaliation will be made at the highest level.

Sources: Daily Trust, State House briefing

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