The Federal Government commenced plans to bring back Nigerians willing to return home from South Africa after fresh anti-foreigner protests and rising tension in some parts of the country.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said Nigeria could not continue to watch its citizens suffer harassment and attacks in South Africa.
It is imperative that the poor state of the economy has forced many young Nigerians to travel abroad in search of better lives.
Since the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that witnessed the removal of fuel subsidy, rising food prices, unemployment and the falling value of the naira have made life more difficult for many citizens.
Citizens complained that if Nigeria governments created jobs and improved living conditions, fewer citizens will be forced to leave the country.
The attacks in South Africa have also led to calls for action against South African companies operating in Nigeria.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole called for strong measures against some of the companies, saying Nigeria must defend its citizens.
But some economists warned that shutting down South African businesses in Nigeria could affect jobs and hurt the country’s economy.
They advised the government to focus on improving the economy and protecting Nigerians through diplomacy and better policies.
