Nigeria’s relations with Australia are under scrutiny following reciprocal travel advisories issued by both nations.
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently cautioned its citizens travelling to Australia, citing increasing cases of harassment, discrimination, and hate crimes, particularly targeting minority groups.
This advisory follows Australia’s travel warning, which urged its citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria due to security concerns, including terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crimes. Specific regions such as Adamawa, Borno, Bayelsa, and Delta states were flagged as high-risk areas.
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advised, “Reconsider your need to travel to Nigeria due to the volatile security situation.”
In response, Nigeria highlighted “the unfortunate recent surge in antisemitic and Islamophobic hate crimes in Australia,” calling for heightened caution for Nigerians in the country.
Former Nigerian Ambassador to Mexico and Singapore, Ogbole Amedu-Ode, defended Nigeria’s action, describing it as a necessary diplomatic move. He said, “Reciprocity is the name of the game in diplomacy. Respect is earned. If the Americans or others issue advisories against Nigeria, we should respond in kind. No society is perfect.”
Amedu-Ode emphasised the need for both nations to resolve the issue diplomatically to avoid escalation. “Both sides can de-escalate the situation through private diplomatic channels,” he advised.
Former Nigerian Ambassador to Brazil and Argentina, Patrick Dele Cole, echoed this sentiment, noting that reciprocity is common in diplomacy. He said, “Both countries should focus on cooperation, not tension. Australia has the right to issue advisories, but dialogue is key to addressing concerns and fostering partnerships.”
However, Cole dismissed the likelihood of a diplomatic crisis, stating, “This is not a crisis. If Nigeria is seen as unsafe, we must address those concerns rather than be offended.”
Ambassador Rasheed Akinkuolie, a former Consul to Cameroon, downplayed the advisories’ impact on bilateral relations, describing them as routine diplomatic actions. He pointed out that Nigerians have significantly contributed to Australian society, citing Bola Oyetunji, the Auditor General of New South Wales, as an example of Nigerian success in Australia.
“While minor incidents like racial slurs occur, they are not typically harmful. Travellers should always exercise caution abroad,” Akinkuolie advised.
Former Nigerian Ambassador to the Philippines, Dr Yemi Farounbi, criticised Australia’s blanket advisory against Nigeria, suggesting it should have targeted specific regions rather than the entire country. He added, “The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs should have sought clarification from Australia’s High Commissioner before responding.”
Farounbi proposed proactive measures, including quarterly forums to educate foreigners about Nigeria. “This reciprocal advisory shows Nigeria’s readiness to assert its diplomatic stature and not allow itself to be undermined,” he stated.
Diplomatic experts agree that both countries must address underlying concerns and improve communication to strengthen their relationship. Whether through dialogue or targeted measures, the goal remains to safeguard the interests of citizens while fostering mutual respect and cooperation.
