Nigeria May Review Options on South African Firms Over Xenophobic Attacks

Nigeria may reconsider its position on South African companies operating in the country if attacks and harassment against Nigerians in South Africa continue, Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has warned.

The warning comes amid renewed outrage over anti-migrant violence in South Africa and fresh concerns about the safety of Nigerians living, working, and raising families there.

Speaking on Thursday, Odumegwu-Ojukwu said Nigeria had shown restraint and continued to pursue diplomatic engagement but added that the government could be forced to consider other lawful options if South African authorities failed to protect Nigerians.

She noted that more than 120 South African companies operate freely in Nigeria, including major brands such as MTN, MultiChoice, Stanbic, Protea and others across telecommunications, banking, hospitality and entertainment.

According to her, South Africans working in Nigeria are not being subjected to the same treatment Nigerians face in South Africa.

She said South African businesses have continued to operate in Nigeria without intimidation, identity checks, forced closures or attacks on their staff. The minister questioned why Nigerians in South Africa are being harassed, displaced and pressured to leave, despite years of residence, business investment and family ties in the country.

Nigeria Considers Diplomatic and Legal Options

Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed that any action against South African companies in Nigeria would not be impulsive. She said the federal government would follow constitutional procedures and work with the National Assembly before taking any major step.

Her comments suggest that Nigeria is weighing a more assertive response but still wants to avoid actions that could damage business ties or violate due process.

The minister said Nigeria’s immediate focus remains diplomatic engagement. However, she added that diplomacy must produce real protection for Nigerians, especially as the attacks continue to raise public anger at home.

Nigerians in South Africa Face Growing Pressure

The latest concern is not only about attacks on Nigerian-owned businesses. Odumegwu-Ojukwu said some Nigerians who have lived in South Africa for years are now being asked to leave with their South African spouses and children.

She described this as a serious humanitarian and diplomatic concern, especially for families whose children have known no other country as home.

The Federal Government has also assured Nigerians willing to return home that evacuation arrangements will continue, with plans to complete the process by June 30.

Early Warning Agreement Allegedly Ignored

The minister also revealed that South African authorities had failed to honour a memorandum of understanding signed with Nigeria in October 2025.

The agreement was designed to create an early warning system that would help both countries prevent violence, protect citizens, and respond quickly during periods of tension.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the failure to act on that agreement had worsened the situation and weakened confidence in South Africa’s commitment to protecting Nigerians.

Pressure Builds at Home

Calls for retaliation have grown louder in Nigeria. In May, Senator Adams Oshiomhole urged the Federal Government to revoke the licences of South African companies operating in Nigeria, including MTN and MultiChoice, over the renewed attacks.

The National Assembly has also condemned the violence and called on the government to take stronger diplomatic and protective measures.

The issue has now moved beyond foreign policy. It has become a test of how far Nigeria is willing to go to defend its citizens abroad while managing its economic relationship with South Africa.

What Happens Next?

Nigeria and South Africa remain two of Africa’s biggest economies, with deep business and diplomatic ties. Any action against South African firms in Nigeria could have major implications for trade, investment, jobs and regional relations.

But the Federal Government’s latest warning shows that patience is wearing thin.

For now, Nigeria is still choosing diplomacy. But if the attacks continue, Abuja may come under stronger public and political pressure to respond with measures that directly affect South African business interests in the country.