Less than 24 hours after Australia cautioned its citizens against traveling to Nigeria due to security concerns, the Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a reciprocal travel advisory. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is urging Nigerians planning to visit Australia to exercise caution amid a surge in harassment and discrimination against foreigners. According to Kimiebi Ebienfa,
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, recent events in some Australian cities have highlighted a disturbing increase in antisemitic and Islamophobic hate crimes. Although Australia is known for its multiculturalism and tolerance, certain areas have experienced a significant rise in these incidents, coinciding with global conflicts and tensions.The advisory cited a disturbing incident in early December 2024 in the Sydney suburb of Woollahra, where a car was set on fire and anti-Israel graffiti was discovered nearby. This incident underscores the need for Nigerians to remain vigilant while traveling to Australia.
“Reconsider your need to travel to Nigeria overall due to the volatile security situation and the threat of terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime, and the risk of civil unrest.
“There’s a high risk of terrorist attacks across Nigeria by various militant groups. Attacks could be indiscriminate or may target foreign interests.”
In response to Australia’s warning about terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime, and civil unrest in Nigeria, the Federal Government is advising Nigerians to respect local customs and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety while in Australia. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement emphasized the importance of being aware of the prevailing security situation in some Australian cities.
“This is imperative for Nigerian travellers and residents in Australia due to reported cases of discrimination, harassment, and verbal abuse targeted at foreigners. The unfortunate recent surge in antisemitic and Islamophobic hate crimes in Australia has increased the risk of violence, hence the need for caution.
“Nigerians are therefore advised to be mindful of the prevailing cultural and social dynamics.’’
Source : https://guardian.ng/news/
