Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, has urged the Federal Government and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to apply the principle of reciprocity in their dealings with South Africa.
The lawmaker made the call on Thursday while reacting to growing calls by Nigerians to boycott South African singer Tyla’s scheduled concert in Lagos following reports of attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
Her comments also come after reports that South African authorities denied Nigerian singer Ayra Starr and members of her team entry visas, forcing the cancellation of her planned performance in the country.
In a post shared on Instagram, Akpoti-Uduaghan said Nigeria should adopt equivalent measures if it is confirmed that Ayra Starr and her crew were denied visas.
She wrote, “I call on the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Federal Government of Nigeria to review the visa applications of South African artistes and their entourages in accordance with the principle of reciprocity in foreign policy.
ALSO READ: Phyna slams N500m lawsuit against Carter Efe over sex claim
“If it is confirmed that our Nigerian artiste, Ayra Starr, and her team were denied entry visas to South Africa, leading to the cancellation of their engagements, then Nigeria should respond with equivalent measures until Nigerian citizens and artistes are accorded fair and respectful treatment.
“This is not a call against Tyla as an individual. Rather, it is a call for Nigeria to uphold the principle of mutual respect that underpins international relations. Reciprocity is a recognized instrument of diplomacy. When our citizens face discriminatory or unjust treatment abroad, Nigeria must demonstrate that such actions carry corresponding consequences.
“Our foreign policy should protect the dignity of Nigerians everywhere and ensure that respect between nations is mutual, not one-sided,” she stated.
The senator maintained that Nigeria’s foreign policy should be guided by mutual respect and should safeguard the rights and dignity of its citizens both at home and abroad.
📢 Stay Updated — Join Our WhatsApp Channel
💬 Be Part of Our WhatsApp Community
Join our WhatsApp Channel for curated updates, breaking stories, and exclusive insights from our newsroom.
📲 Join 👉 NRTC WhatsApp Channel
