Nigeria’s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has dismissed calls to suspend or revoke the operating licences of MTN and DStv, opting instead for diplomatic engagement with South Africa.
The decision follows a proposal by Adams Oshiomhole, who urged the Senate to take retaliatory economic action over renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.
What You Need to Know
The Senate rejected economic retaliation, including licence suspension of South African firms. Akpabio stated that diplomacy, not sanctions, remains Nigeria’s preferred response.
A joint National Assembly delegation will be set up to engage South African authorities directly. The Senate will also liaise with Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for coordinated action.
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Key Developments
Oshiomhole had proposed revoking licences and even nationalising MTN as a countermeasure. He framed the move as an “economic response” to protect Nigerians abroad.
Lawmakers across chambers condemned the xenophobic attacks, increasing pressure for action.
Implications
Nigeria avoids immediate disruption to telecom and pay-TV sectors, which are heavily dependent on foreign investment. The decision signals a preference for stability over retaliatory economic policy.
Diplomatic channels are positioned as the primary tool for conflict resolution between both countries. Businesses operating in Nigeria receive assurance against abrupt regulatory retaliation.
Context
Tensions escalated following renewed xenophobic violence targeting Nigerians in South Africa, prompting calls within Nigeria’s legislature for a tougher stance.
Oshiomhole’s proposal reflected a broader sentiment of reciprocity arguing that Nigeria should mirror economic pressure in response to attacks on its citizens abroad.
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Background
Nigeria and South Africa maintain strong economic ties, with major South African firms like MTN and DStv holding significant market share in Nigeria.Past xenophobic incidents have repeatedly strained bilateral relations, often triggering diplomatic protests but rarely escalating into direct economic sanctions.
Source: NaijaNews
