Nigeria Seeks Compensation for Abandoned Assets in South Africa

The Federal Government of Nigeria, represented by Alexand Ajayi, plans to demand compensation for Nigerian businesses and properties left behind in South Africa. This initiative follows a voluntary evacuation program for Nigerians who opted to return home due to escalating anti-immigrant protests.

Ajayi disclosed this during a briefing on Tuesday, stating that the government is working to document the abandoned assets, including movable and immovable properties. The discussions with South African officials aim to ensure that Nigerians who have returned are not left without recourse for their investments.

Ajayi emphasized that the evacuation exercise is not the end of the matter, as the government intends to pursue compensation from the South African government. He also addressed the issue of undocumented Nigerians, asserting that many entered the country legally but faced delays in renewing their immigration documents.

Additionally, former Nigerian ambassador to Switzerland, Joseph Ayalogu, called for stronger enforcement of South African laws to protect foreign-owned businesses from xenophobic attacks.