Nigeria, South Africa de-escalate diplomatic tensions
Nigeria and South Africa agreed to de-escalate diplomatic tensions following bilateral talks in Abuja, as Nigeria began distributing compensation forms to repatriated citizens.
The Federal Government of Nigeria and South Africa agreed to de-escalate diplomatic tensions following bilateral talks in Abuja between Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sola Enikanolaiye and South African Special Envoy Ronald Lamola. Nigeria began distributing formal loss-assessment forms to repatriated citizens to compile data-backed compensation claims for property destroyed during recent violence against foreign nationals.
The talks represent a significant step towards resolving the diplomatic crisis triggered by the xenophobic attacks in South Africa. Nigeria had earlier declined a direct audience with the South African delegation, but the talks have now produced an agreement to de-escalate tensions. The distribution of loss-assessment forms suggests that Nigeria is preparing to seek compensation for its citizens.
This echoes the 2019 diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and South Africa, which were also resolved through bilateral talks. The mechanism then was different, but the result was the same: a diplomatic solution to a crisis.
The winners: the Nigerian and South African governments, which have de-escalated tensions; and the Nigerian citizens who may receive compensation. The losers: the victims of the attacks, who have yet to receive justice; and the Nigerian public, who are watching closely.
Bottom Line: Nigeria and South Africa have de-escalated diplomatic tensions. Compensation claims are being prepared. The question is whether the compensation will be paid or remain a promise.