ON THE OFFICIAL ADVISORY TO AKWA IBOM INDIGENES IN SOUTH AFRICA
The Office of the Akwa Ibom State Diaspora Focal Point Officer, under the Akwa Ibom State Government, wishes to formally address the recent official advisory issued to Akwa Ibom indigenes residing in South Africa regarding emerging concerns linked to xenophobic tensions in certain locations.
The advisory urging all citizens to remain calm, vigilant, law-abiding, and to avoid volatile environments is both timely and essential. In moments of heightened tension, the preservation of life and safety remains the highest priority. All Akwa Ibom indigenes are strongly advised to strictly adhere to these directives, remain security-conscious, and maintain continuous contact with the embassy of Nigeria in South Africa, as well as other relevant Nigerian diplomatic missions.
The Office acknowledges and commends the leadership of HE, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for his administration’s ongoing commitment to the protection and welfare of Nigerians at home and abroad, particularly through coordinated diplomatic and consular interventions.
We also recognize the critical role of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, under the leadership of Hon. (Dr.) Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), for its continuous engagement, monitoring of diaspora-related developments, and coordination with relevant missions to ensure timely response and support for Nigerians in distress.
Furthermore, the Office acknowledges the efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the supervision of H.E. Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Honourable Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, whose diplomatic engagements continue to strengthen communication and coordination with Nigerian embassies, high commissions, and host country authorities.
At the state level,the Office commends His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State,for his steady leadership, concern, and unwavering support for Akwa Ibom indigenes in the diaspora. His administration continues to prioritize the welfare and safety of citizens regardless of their location.
We further acknowledge the legislative leadership of Senator Aniekan Bassey, Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs),10th National Assembly, for his continued advocacy and oversight on matters affecting Nigerians abroad.
The Office of the Diaspora Focal Point assures all Akwa Ibom indigenes in South Africa that engagements are ongoing with relevant federal, state, and diplomatic stakeholders to ensure their safety, provide timely support, and maintain clear channels of communication throughout this period.
We urge all affected persons to remain calm, avoid panic or misinformation, and prioritize personal safety above all else.
The Government and people of Akwa Ibom State remain firmly in solidarity with every indigenes affected and reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding their welfare wherever they may be in the world.
Signed:
Hon. Linda Akon Umoh
Senior Special Assistant on Diaspora Matters
Office of the Akwa Ibom State Diaspora Focal Point Officer
