Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan has called on the Federal Government and the Nigeria Immigration Service to review visa applications submitted by South African artistes and their entourages in line with the principle of reciprocity in foreign policy.
The Kogi Central lawmaker made the call amid reports that Nigerian music star Ayra Starr and members of her team were allegedly denied entry visas to South Africa, forcing the cancellation of their scheduled engagements.
In a statement on Thursday, Akpoti-Uduaghan said that if the reports were confirmed, Nigeria should adopt equivalent measures against South African artistes seeking entry into the country until Nigerian citizens and entertainers receive fair and respectful treatment from South African authorities.
According to the senator, the demand is not directed at South African singer Tyla personally but is intended to ensure that Nigeria upholds the principle of mutual respect that governs international relations.
She argued that reciprocity remains a recognised diplomatic tool and should be invoked whenever Nigerians are subjected to discriminatory or unjust treatment abroad.
Akpoti-Uduaghan maintained that Nigeria’s foreign policy should be guided by the protection of the dignity of its citizens, stressing that respect between nations must be mutual rather than one-sided.
She called on Nigerian authorities to defend the interests of its citizens wherever they are, declaring, “Viva Nigeria.”
