The Federal Government has directed Nigerians returning from South Africa under the voluntary evacuation programme to document businesses, vehicles, landed properties, and other assets they were forced to abandon as a result of rising anti-immigration tensions in the country.
The documentation exercise is aimed at compiling credible records to support compensation claims for investments lost or left behind by affected Nigerians.
The development follows widespread anti-immigration protests across South Africa, which have heightened fears of xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals, including Nigerians, prompting many to return home for safety.
As part of efforts to protect the interests of affected citizens, Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner to South Africa has commenced diplomatic engagements with South African authorities to seek compensation for Nigerians whose businesses and properties were affected by the crisis.
Officials said the exercise would provide the government with the necessary information to pursue appropriate diplomatic and legal channels in seeking redress for citizens who suffered losses during the unrest.
The Federal Government also urged affected Nigerians to provide accurate details of their abandoned assets to facilitate the documentation process and strengthen the country’s case in ongoing discussions with the South African government.
The latest move underscores Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare and economic interests of its citizens abroad amid growing concerns over recurring xenophobic tensions in South Africa.
