Nigeria Weighs Action Against South African Companies Over Xenophobia

The Federal Government has hinted at a possible review of the operations of South African companies in Nigeria if attacks and harassment targeting Nigerians in South Africa continue despite ongoing diplomatic engagements between both countries.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made the disclosure on Thursday while addressing concerns over renewed xenophobic attacks and the government’s ongoing evacuation of willing Nigerians from South Africa.

The minister noted that more than 120 South African-owned businesses operate in Nigeria, including MTN, MultiChoice, Stanbic IBTC and Protea Hotels, without facing the kind of hostility Nigerians reportedly encounter in South Africa.

According to her, Nigerian authorities have exercised restraint and continued to pursue diplomatic solutions, but persistent reports of intimidation, harassment and attacks against Nigerians could necessitate a reassessment of available options.

Highlighting what she described as a disparity in treatment, Odumegwu-Ojukwu said South African businesses continue to operate freely in Nigeria while Nigerians in South Africa face increasing scrutiny and harassment.

“There are over 120 South African companies in Nigeria. Nobody is asking them to provide proof of identity before they can operate. Yet Nigerians in South Africa are being subjected to this treatment. At some point, we really have to review the options available to us,” she said.

The minister stressed that any action taken by Nigeria would follow due process and, where necessary, involve consultations with relevant institutions, including the National Assembly.

She also expressed concern over the impact of the attacks on Nigerians who have built families and livelihoods in South Africa, noting that many affected persons are married to South Africans and have children born and raised in the country.

“When your citizens are being harassed, then it becomes a serious concern,” she added.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu further disclosed that South African authorities declined to activate a Memorandum of Understanding signed with Nigeria in October 2025 on an early warning mechanism designed to protect citizens of both countries during periods of tension, citing procedural concerns.

She maintained that Nigeria remains committed to diplomatic engagement but warned that continued attacks on Nigerians and other African migrants could further strain relations and compel a review of existing measures.

The remarks come amid growing calls for stronger action following reports of renewed xenophobic attacks and threats against foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.