The Federal Government has said Nigeria may take retaliatory measures following reported xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, amid ongoing efforts to evacuate affected citizens who wish to return home.
Authorities also confirmed that the planned repatriation flights, initially scheduled to commence on Monday, have been delayed due to documentation and screening procedures being carried out in coordination with South African officials.
The screening exercise, which covers more than 1,000 Nigerians living in South Africa, began last Thursday and was expected to be completed by Saturday, with evacuation flights originally slated for Monday.
Speaking with State House correspondents in Abuja, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said arrangements were being finalised to bring back Nigerians who have indicated interest in returning.
She also did not rule out the possibility of reciprocal actions against South African interests in Nigeria if the situation persists.
“Well, that is a situation that we are considering. This is up to our legislature. This is a decision that has to be taken at the highest level of government.
“But it’s not off the table,” she said.
The minister expressed concern over the treatment of Nigerians, stressing that the country had played a significant historical role in supporting South Africa during its struggle against apartheid.
“Nigeria is not happy because Nigeria has sacrificed much for the South African struggle for independence. Nigeria sacrificed quite a lot, committed funds, committed resources to aid South Africa,” she said.
She added that Nigerians had supported South Africa’s liberation efforts in various ways, including advocacy and international solidarity, and expressed disappointment over the current situation affecting Nigerian nationals.
