The federal government of Nigeria has issued travel advise to its nationals planning on making any trip to Australia, and others that are presently resident in that country.
This is based on the prevailing security realities in some parts of the country, due to what it described as some reported cases of discriminate harassment and verbal abuse targeted at foreigners
The above position was contained in a press release by the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the Acting Spokesperson of the ministry, dated the 31st of December 2024.
below is the full text of the Ministry’s press statement;
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja
PRESS RELEASE
No: MFA/PR/2024/48
*TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR NIGERIAN NATIONALS PLANNING TO VISIT AUSTRALIA*
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to advise citizens of the country planning to travel to Australia to take into cognizance the prevailing security situation in some cities. This is imperative for Nigerian travelers 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.
While Australia is generally known for its multiculturalism and tolerance, incidents of Islamophobia and antisemitism have occurred recently in certain areas. In early December 2024, a disturbing incident occurred in the Sydney suburb of Woollahra, where a car was set ablaze and anti-Israel graffiti was sprayed on nearby buildings. This event is part of a broader increase in both antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents in Australia, coinciding with international conflicts and tensions.
Nigerians are therefore advised to be mindful of the prevailing cultural and social dynamics to ensure their safety and comfort. To this end, extra vigilance and necessary precautions are strongly recommended.
Nigerian travellers and residents of Australia who experience or witness any form of racist attack or harassment should contact the High Commission of Nigeria at 26 Guilfoyle St, Yarralumla ACT 2600, Canberra, Australia.
Phone: +61262158500. Email: chancery@nigeria-can.org.au
Signed:
Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa,
Acting Spokesperson,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja
Tuesday, 31st December, 2024
