By Daily Review Online
The Federal Government has indicated that it may consider taking measures against South African companies operating in Nigeria if the persistent xenophobic attacks and harassment of Nigerians living in South Africa continue.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this on Thursday while addressing growing concerns over anti-migrant violence and ongoing efforts to evacuate affected Nigerians from South Africa.
According to the minister, Nigeria has exercised considerable restraint and prioritised diplomatic engagement, but may be forced to review its options should the situation deteriorate further.
She noted that more than 120 South African companies currently operate in Nigeria, including major firms such as MTN, MultiChoice, Stanbic and Protea.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said Nigerians have not subjected South African businesses or employees in Nigeria to the kind of treatment Nigerians are experiencing in South Africa.
“Nobody is asking South African workers to prove their identity, and no one is taking over their businesses or shops in Nigeria. Yet, Nigerians in South Africa are being targeted. At some point, we may have to reconsider the options available to us,” she said.
However, the minister emphasised that any retaliatory action would be undertaken in line with constitutional provisions and due legislative processes.
She explained that while the Federal Government is actively engaging South African authorities through diplomatic channels, the National Assembly would also have a constitutional role in determining Nigeria’s response if those efforts prove unsuccessful.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu further revealed that South Africa 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.
She described the development as disappointing, noting that the agreement was intended to prevent exactly the type of crisis currently unfolding.
The minister expressed concern over the plight of Nigerians who have lived in South Africa for many years, some of whom are married to South Africans and have children who know no other home.
“When your citizens are being harassed and forced to leave a country where they have built their lives, alongside their South African spouses and children, it becomes a serious matter that cannot be ignored,” she said.
In May, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, called for the revocation of licences granted to South African companies operating in Nigeria, including MTN and MultiChoice, in response to renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians.
The National Assembly also condemned the attacks and urged the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic efforts and implement measures to safeguard Nigerians living abroad.