Nigeria Vows to Protect Interests Amid South Africa Xenophobia

In the wake of the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, the Nigerian government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the interests and welfare of its citizens. Presidential Adviser on Foreign Affairs, Demola Oshodi, emphasized that Nigeria will not tolerate any form of humiliation or significant damage to its interests in South Africa. Oshodi noted that while the government is keen on maintaining good relations with South Africa, it will not compromise on the safety and well-being of Nigerians. 'We will not accept any sort of humiliation or definitely any huge damages to our interests there. It's just not possible,' he stated during a television broadcast. The Nigerian government has already taken steps to repatriate its citizens, with hundreds of vulnerable individuals evacuated from South Africa. According to Oshodi, the government is working closely with the South African authorities to address the issue and ensure the protection of Nigerian nationals. Nigeria's Acting High Commissioner to South Africa, Alexander Ajayi, also revealed that the government is exploring options for compensating Nigerians who were forced to abandon their businesses and properties due to the xenophobic attacks. 'We are going to systematically follow up on the information given to us,' Ajayi said. 'We will work with the South African government to get to the exact locations of all these businesses, shops, and properties and present them to the South African government for possible compensation.' The latest repatriation of Nigerians occurred on the deadline set by some groups for undocumented immigrants to leave South Africa, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution to the crisis.