THE Federal Government has revealed that it may consider measures affecting South African-owned businesses operating in Nigeria if attacks and harassment targeting Nigerians in South Africa continue unabated.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this known today while responding to concerns over the worsening wave of anti-migrant attacks and the evacuation of affected Nigerians from South Africa.
According to the minister, Nigeria has consistently pursued diplomatic engagement and exercised restraint despite repeated incidents involving its citizens.
She however, warned that the government may be forced to reassess its options if the situation persists.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that more than 120 South African companies currently operate in Nigeria across various sectors and continue to conduct business without facing discrimination or restrictions.
She pointed out that South African employees working in Nigeria are not subjected to identity checks, nor are their businesses targeted, unlike the treatment being experienced by some Nigerians in South Africa.
Among the major South African firms operating in Nigeria, she listed MTN Nigeria, MultiChoice Nigeria, Stanbic IBTC, and Protea Hotels.
Despite the concerns, the minister emphasised that any action taken by Nigeria would be guided by constitutional provisions and due legislative processes.
She explained that diplomatic channels remain the government’s primary approach, while the National Assembly would play a constitutional role in determining further steps if those efforts fail.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also revealed that South African authorities had abandoned a Memorandum of Understanding signed with Nigeria in October 2025 on an early warning mechanism designed to protect the lives and property of citizens of both countries during periods of tension or conflict.
She described the situation as particularly troubling given that many Nigerians living in South Africa have established families, businesses, and long-term roots in the country.
According to her, some are married to South Africans and have children who know no other home, yet they are now facing pressure to leave alongside their spouses and families.
The minister stressed that while caution and diplomacy remain necessary, the continued targeting of Nigerians abroad is a matter of serious national concern that cannot be ignored.
Her comments come months after former Edo State governor and senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, called for the revocation of operating licences granted to South African companies in Nigeria following renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians.
The National Assembly had also condemned the attacks and urged the Federal Government to strengthen diplomatic efforts while taking practical measures to safeguard Nigerian citizens living abroad.
As tensions continue to mount, the Federal Government says it remains committed to protecting Nigerians overseas while exploring all lawful and diplomatic avenues to address the recurring incidents.
