ABUJA, Nigeria — Nigeria has officially indicated that it may pursue compensation from South Africa on behalf of its citizens who have suffered significant business and property losses amid ongoing protests in the country. The announcement comes as the Nigerian government continues to evacuate hundreds of its nationals from the volatile region while maintaining active diplomatic channels with Pretoria.
Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirmed that Nigerian missions in South Africa—specifically the High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg—have been providing timely information to help citizens avoid direct confrontation with protesters. These missions are also meticulously documenting the losses of affected business owners. Many Nigerian nationals have been forced to close their shops and abandon their sources of livelihood to ensure their safety.
According to Ebienfa, the Nigerian government is compiling verifiable evidence of these businesses, including proof of tax payments and legal operations. The mission is currently collecting this data and will collaborate with relevant South African authorities to verify the claims before formally pressing for financial compensation.
The spokesperson emphasized that the push for compensation strictly applies to Nigerians who possess legal residency and business status in South Africa. “Someone that has been living illegally cannot press for compensation,” Ebienfa stated, clarifying that the government will not advocate for undocumented individuals.
Ebienfa explained that there are two distinct categories of Nigerians who have recently departed South Africa. The first group consists of undocumented individuals who were granted waivers by South African authorities to leave the country. The second group comprises legal residents who made the decision to flee due to safety concerns stemming from the ongoing unrest. He noted that data shared by South African agencies confirms that not all departing Nigerians are undocumented migrants.
Addressing the broader issue of immigration and xenophobia, the Nigerian government reiterated its support for the free movement of goods and services across the African continent. However, Ebienfa stressed that nationals must adhere to established legal procedures when residing in foreign countries. He strongly condemned the actions of private individuals and vigilante groups who have been stopping people to demand identification on the streets of Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban.
“It should not be the responsibility of private individuals to be asking for documents or asking for IDs in the streets,” Ebienfa said, asserting that immigration enforcement is the sole responsibility of recognized law enforcement agencies, not untrained civilians.
Despite the rising tensions, the Nigerian federal government is actively working to prevent retaliatory measures against South African businesses operating within its borders. While some civil groups have called for drastic actions and picketing, Ebienfa confirmed that the government is engaging with these groups to maintain peace. He emphasized Nigeria’s historical role as the “giant of Africa” in uniting the continent, urging citizens to remain law-abiding despite perceived grievances. He assured that there have been no targeted protests against South African enterprises in Nigeria and that foreign business owners are operating safely without molestation.
Meanwhile, the evacuation exercise for Nigerian citizens continues, though at a measured pace. Ebienfa disclosed that 593 Nigerians have been evacuated so far. An additional flight departing Johannesburg is scheduled to arrive in Lagos with 271 passengers, with more flights anticipated over the next two days to transport over 700 screened and cleared individuals.
Addressing criticisms regarding the slow pace of the evacuations, the spokesperson explained that the process is deliberately managed one flight at a time. This approach is necessary because the South African Department of Home Affairs releases cleared names in batches. Furthermore, the mission is avoiding mass gatherings at its facilities to prevent overcrowding and ensure the safety of citizens in a volatile environment.
Ebienfa concluded by affirming that the evacuation of citizens does not signify a severing of diplomatic ties. Nigeria remains committed to robust diplomatic relations with South Africa, emphasizing that both nations will continue to sit down and resolve bilateral issues amicably.
