The Nigerian government says it will engage the South African authorities to seek compensation for Nigerians forced to abandon their businesses and properties amid anti-immigrant protests in the country.
Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Alexander Ajayi, disclosed this during a television interview as another batch of Nigerians prepared to return home under the Federal Government’s voluntary evacuation programme.
Ajayi explained that those being repatriated are citizens who voluntarily chose to leave South Africa ahead of planned anti-immigrant demonstrations. He added that the government has begun documenting the businesses and properties left behind by the returnees as part of efforts to pursue compensation.
“Just three days ago, I met with the South African Deputy Minister of Finance, and we discussed the issue,” Ajayi said. “We agreed that Nigerians returning home should accurately document everything they are leaving behind, including businesses, vehicles, and both movable and immovable properties. With this information, we can engage the South African government and take the matter forward.”
He stressed that the government’s efforts would not end with evacuating affected citizens.
“This repatriation is not just about bringing people back to Nigeria,” he said. “We will systematically follow up on the information provided. I have urged them to be as accurate as possible because we intend to work with the South African government to identify the exact locations of these businesses, shops and properties and formally present them in pursuit of possible compensation. We cannot allow years of hard work and investment by our people to be lost without seeking redress.”
