A call has been made to the Federal Government of Nigeria to compile data on South African citizens residing in Nigeria.
The call was made by a prominent public affairs analyst, Omo’ba Abayomi Adesanya, citing ongoing attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.
Omo’ba Adesanya is a Senior Special Assistant to the Senate President, Office of the Deputy Senate President
He urged the Federal Ministry of Interior to provide accurate records of South African nationals living in Nigeria for official purposes and to demonstrate Nigeria’s longstanding hospitality.
He stated that aggregate statistical data could help inform public understanding and diplomatic engagement.
Omo’ba Adesanya also noted Nigeria’s historical support for South Africa during the apartheid era and called for reciprocal respect for Nigerians living abroad, regardless of immigration status.
“For decades, Nigeria stood on the frontline and sacrificed blood and treasure to dismantle apartheid in South Africa.
“We hosted, funded, and defended South Africans when the world abandoned them. It is betrayal, ingratitude, and unacceptable for their government to now preside over xenophobic violence against Nigerians and other Africans.
“Nigeria can no longer watch in silence while our citizens are attacked, humiliated, and killed in South Africa,” he stated.
He further appealed to Nigerians and security agencies to continue treating all foreign nationals in the country with dignity, respect, and hospitality, in line with Nigeria’s reputation.
“We remain a hospitable people. But hospitality must not be mistaken for weakness. We will continue to treat every foreign guest with dignity, while our government defends the dignity of Nigerians abroad,”
Omo’ba Adesanya said.
