Less than 24 hours after the Australian government advised its citizens to reconsider traveling to Nigeria over security concerns, the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, issued a travel advisory for Nigerians planning to visit Australia.
The advisory urged Nigerians to exercise caution due to a reported rise in incidents of harassment and discrimination against foreigners.
In a statement, MFA spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa noted that recent events in some Australian cities have shown an increase in antisemitic and Islamophobic hate crimes.
The ministry acknowledged that while Australia is recognized for its multiculturalism and tolerance, certain areas have seen a rise in incidents of harassment and discrimination, coinciding with global conflicts and tensions.
The advisory highlighted a December 2024 incident in Woollahra, a Sydney suburb, where a car was set on fire, and anti-Israel graffiti was found nearby.
On Tuesday, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) issued a travel warning for Nigeria, citing threats of terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime, and civil unrest.
The advisory stated: “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, the Federal Government urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, respect local customs, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
The statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs read: “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 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.”
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