Natasha demands visa review for South African artistes

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has urged the Nigerian government and immigration authorities to implement a review of visa applications for South African artists and their entourages. This call for reciprocity in foreign policy comes amid controversy surrounding the cancelled Lagos concert of South African singer Tyla and alleged mistreatment of Nigerian artists in South Africa.

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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.

Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that Nigeria should not remain passive when its citizens face unfair treatment abroad. She specifically cited reports that Nigerian music star Ayra Starr and her team were allegedly denied entry visas to South Africa, which led to the cancellation of their planned engagements. The senator emphasized that if these reports are confirmed, Nigeria should respond with equivalent measures.

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If it is confirmed that our Nigerian artiste Ayra Starr and her team were previously 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.

"If it is confirmed that our Nigerian artiste Ayra Starr and her team were previously 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," the senator said. She clarified that her stance is not personal against Tyla or any South African artist but aims to ensure Nigeria's diplomatic relations are guided by fairness and mutual respect.

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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.

The lawmaker described reciprocity as a recognized diplomatic tool, arguing that discriminatory actions against Nigerians abroad should have consequences. She urged the Federal Government to ensure that Nigeria's foreign policy actively protects the dignity of Nigerians, regardless of their location.

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When our citizens face discriminatory or unjust treatment abroad, Nigeria must demonstrate that such actions carry corresponding consequences.