Nigeria Plans Sanctions Against South Africa Over Xenophobia

The Federal Government of Nigeria is contemplating sanctions against South Africa due to a recent wave of xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians living in the country. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, expressed dissatisfaction with the South African government's inadequate response to these incidents during a briefing at the Presidential Villa in Abuja after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu.

Ojukwu highlighted that the attacks primarily affect legal Nigerian residents and their businesses, dismissing claims that undocumented migrants are the main targets. She noted Nigeria's historical support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle and emphasized the need for stronger diplomatic actions.

The Nigerian government is considering suspending business permits for South African companies operating in Nigeria and has initiated plans to evacuate Nigerians wishing to return home, with five flights approved to facilitate this process. Approximately 1,000 Nigerians have registered for evacuation, with the first flight expected to airlift 270 passengers.