Tension Brews: Nigeria Considers Major Crackdown On MTN, MultiChoice, Other South African Companies

The Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has indicated that it may consider taking action against South African companies operating in Nigeria, including telecommunications giant MTN, amid growing concerns over the alleged harassment and attacks on Nigerians residing in South Africa.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking on Thursday, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, expressed concern over the worsening treatment of Nigerians in South Africa and the ongoing evacuation efforts involving affected citizens.

According to the minister, Nigeria has consistently adopted a diplomatic approach and exercised restraint in addressing the issue. However, she warned that the government could be forced to explore additional measures if the situation remains unresolved.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu pointed out that more than 120 South African-owned businesses currently operate freely in Nigeria, enjoying a business environment that contrasts sharply with the experiences of many Nigerians in South Africa.

She noted that South African nationals working in Nigeria are not subjected to identity checks, discrimination, or the takeover of their businesses, unlike what some Nigerians reportedly face abroad.

The minister cited several major South African companies with significant investments in Nigeria, including MTN, MultiChoice, Stanbic Bank, and Protea Hotels, among others.

While stressing that any response from Nigeria would follow constitutional and legal procedures, she explained that the government is still pursuing diplomatic engagement with South African authorities. She added that the National Assembly would also have a role to play should stronger measures become necessary.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu further revealed that South Africa had failed to implement a Memorandum of Understanding signed with Nigeria in October 2025. The agreement was intended to establish an early warning mechanism aimed at protecting the lives and property of citizens from both countries during periods of tension.

Expressing concern over reports from South Africa, the minister said some Nigerians—including those married to South Africans and raising families there—were allegedly being pressured to leave the country.

She described the development as troubling, noting that many affected individuals have spent years building their lives in South Africa, while some of their children have known no other home.

Her remarks come weeks after Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, urged the Federal Government to revoke the operating licences of South African companies in Nigeria, including MTN and MultiChoice, the parent company of DStv.

The National Assembly has also condemned the attacks on Nigerians in South Africa and called on the Federal Government to strengthen diplomatic efforts and take necessary steps to protect Nigerian citizens abroad.