Senator Akpoti Calls for Visa Reciprocity with South Africa

On Thursday evening, Senator Natasha Akpoti, representing Kogi Central, called on the Nigerian government and the Nigeria Immigration Service to respond to South Africa's recent denial of visas to Nigerian singer Ayra Starr and her crew, which led to the cancellation of her concert in South Africa. In light of ongoing campaigns by Nigerians against South African singer Tyla's concert in Lagos, Akpoti urged the Federal Government to adopt reciprocal measures as part of its foreign policy.

She expressed that the treatment of Nigerian artists abroad should be met with equivalent responses, stating that “reciprocity is a recognized instrument of diplomacy.” Akpoti's Instagram post highlighted the need for Nigeria to uphold the dignity of its citizens and ensure mutual respect in international relations, asserting that discriminatory actions against Nigerians should have corresponding consequences.