Senator Umeh Says Nigeria Has The Power To Expel South Africans Over Xenophobic Attacks

According to reports, Umeh made the remark on Tuesday during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, while reacting to renewed concerns over alleged xenophobic attacks against Nigerians living in South Africa.

The lawmaker maintained that Nigeria had enough human resources and technical expertise to take over businesses currently operated by South Africans, insisting that the country would not suffer any collapse if such companies exited the Nigerian market.

Umeh argued that there was no South African-owned business in Nigeria that Nigerians could not establish and manage themselves if the government and citizens prioritised local capacity development.

“We can send them away from here, even their business, who cares? It’s not like Nigeria will collapse if they go, we will never collapse,” he said.

His comments came amid reports of renewed attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, with allegations of killings and destruction of businesses belonging to foreigners.

The senator condemned xenophobic actions, warning that hostility towards foreigners could negatively affect South Africa’s global reputation and economic growth.

He noted that attacking immigrants was not a sustainable way to develop a nation, adding that continued hostility could discourage international investment and tourism.

“Attacking and sending foreigners out of your country is not the way to build a nation. By the time people avoid going to South Africa, they will see the hurt they have done to themselves,” Umeh stated.

The former lawmaker further stressed that Nigeria possessed the expertise required to develop alternatives to services provided by South African-linked companies, including in the digital technology sector.

He recalled that Nigerian investors had previously attempted to establish local digital satellite transmission platforms, citing the efforts of Daar Communications in 2006 as an example of the country’s potential.

Umeh urged the government to prioritise investment in technology and local industries, saying Nigeria could create more opportunities and strengthen its economy through deliberate policies and innovation.

He added that with the right support and commitment, Nigeria could develop homegrown solutions capable of competing with international businesses.