A fresh diplomatic disagreement has emerged between Nigeria and South Africa. The Federal Government has rejected comments made by a South African minister, describing them as inappropriate and unprofessional.
ABUJA, FCT — The Federal Government of Nigeria has criticised Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, South Africa’s Minister in the Presidency, over her call for Nigeria to identify the locations of alleged criminal hideouts linked to some Nigerians living in South Africa. According to an official government statement, Nigeria described the remarks as derogatory and unprofessional.
The disagreement followed comments made by Khumbudzo Ntshavheni during a press conference on Friday, where she dismissed suggestions that South Africa should compensate Nigerians whose properties were abandoned after anti-migrant tensions. She also challenged Nigeria to disclose the locations of the alleged criminal hideouts associated with some Nigerians in South Africa, according to reports.
In its response, the Federal Government said the minister’s comments failed to reflect the longstanding diplomatic relationship between both countries. Nigerian authorities maintained that allegations involving criminal activities should be handled through established law enforcement and judicial channels rather than through public statements that could affect the image of an entire nationality.
Nigeria also reiterated its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with South Africa while urging both countries to address migration and security concerns through cooperation and mutual respect. The government stressed that criminal acts should remain the responsibility of individuals and should not define law-abiding citizens living abroad.
The development means diplomatic engagements between Nigeria and South Africa may continue as both governments seek to manage concerns surrounding migration, security and the welfare of their citizens. Observers expect further official communication to clarify both countries’ positions while preserving the longstanding relationship between Africa’s two largest economies.
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