Protect Nigerians Living Abroad: Urgent Measures Needed to Safeguard Citizens
The murder of Nigerian artist Destiny in Ghana highlights significant failures in Nigeria’s foreign policy regarding the protection of its citizens abroad. Reports indicate about 300 Nigerians faced extrajudicial killings between 2016 and 2023, with many incidents linked to xenophobia in South Africa. The lack of swift government response and justice for victims raises serious concerns about the safety of Nigerians overseas. Furthermore, Nigeria’s diaspora plays a crucial economic role, contributing significantly to the national GDP, implying the need for better protective measures from the government.
Nigeria’s ongoing challenges with the safety of its citizens abroad came into sharp focus following the tragic murder of 18-year-old Destiny in Ghana. He was killed after a business dispute allegedly led to a violent confrontation within his apartment. The incident is emblematic of larger issues regarding Nigeria’s foreign policy and the protective measures—or lack thereof—afforded to its citizens outside the country.
A report from The PUNCH reveals a disturbing trend: between 2016 and 2023, about 300 Nigerians lost their lives to extrajudicial killings in foreign lands. South Africa remains a particular hotspot, grappling with xenophobic violence that has claimed over 200 Nigerian lives. Elizabeth Ndubuisi-Chukwu, a prominent figure found deceased under suspicious circumstances in Johannesburg in 2019, underscores the dire situation many face in foreign territories.
Further complicating the narrative, the recent shooting death of 19-year-old Afolabi Opaso in Canada, alongside the brutal murder of Nigerian medical student Ikem Chukwubuikem in the Philippines, highlight the perilous conditions faced by Nigerians overseas. In another incident, 16 members of the Tijaniyat sect were murdered in Burkina Faso while making a pilgrimage, showcasing the range of threats facing Nigerians on foreign soil.
What is particularly concerning is the apparent lack of justice for these victims and their families. The same systemic failures that allow for violence domestically seem to extend to the treatment of Nigerians abroad, raising questions about the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens’ rights—a commitment that appears to falter both at home and in international arenas.
The safety of Nigerians abroad is further called into question regarding the repatriation of remains and emergency responses to crises. The unfortunate death of boxer Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who collapsed during a match in Ghana, exemplifies the delayed urgency with which the Nigerian government addresses such tragedies. Comparisons with countries like the US, which actively supports its citizens abroad through diplomatic and security measures, highlight this disconnect.
The diaspora plays a crucial economic role, with remittances from Nigerians abroad surpassing $20 billion, a significant contributor to the nation’s GDP. Ensuring the safety of these individuals is more than just a moral obligation; it is economically prudent. On the flip side, there is an expectation on the Nigerian community abroad to abide by laws and act responsibly in their host nations.
A significant issue remains the delay in appointing new ambassadors after the recent recall, which leaves Nigerians abroad somewhat abandoned in terms of representation. Reports of Nigerian diplomats possibly vacating embassies in dangerous situations, such as the recent conflict involving Israel and Iran, further complicate the already precarious situation.
The root causes of the mass migration of Nigerians, with over a million residing in the US and significant populations in the UK and Canada, must be addressed. Unfortunately, many are drawn to regions laden with risks—the lure of opportunity can often lead to dire consequences.
Nigerians considering life abroad should understand that it is rife with challenges, and the allure of prosperity must be measured against the realities of safety and stability that their homeland can also provide. Ultimately, Nigeria’s government must prioritize the protection of its citizens as a focal point of its foreign policy, ensuring they have the support they need when faced with danger abroad.
In summary, the safety and protection of Nigerians living abroad is currently inadequate, with numerous instances of violence and injustice that reflect poorly on Nigeria’s foreign policy. Despite the significant contributions of the diaspora to Nigeria’s economy, many citizens face dire threats without adequate support from their government. As such, a reevaluation of protective measures and a commitment to justice for victims are essential. Additionally, understanding the complexities of life abroad is critical for Nigerians seeking opportunities outside the country. The government must take decisive action to safeguard its citizens, both at home and in their international endeavors.
Original Source: punchng.com
