Natasha seeks reciprocal visa policy over alleged denial of Ayra Starr’s South Africa entry

From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja

Kogi Central senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has called on the Federal Government to apply the principle of reciprocity in its visa policy, urging Nigerian authorities to review visa applications by South African artistes and their entourages following reports that singer Ayra Starr and members of her team were denied entry into South Africa.

In a statement issued on Friday by her media office, the senator representing Kogi Central said Nigeria must not remain passive when its citizens are allegedly subjected to unfair treatment abroad.

She specifically urged the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Federal Government to review visa applications by South African entertainers in line with Nigeria’s foreign policy principle of reciprocity.

“I call on the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Federal Government of Nigeria to review the visa applications of South African artistes and their entourages in accordance with the principle of reciprocity in foreign policy,” she said.

The lawmaker said if reports that Ayra Starr and her team were denied South African entry visas, leading to the cancellation of their engagements, are confirmed, Nigeria should respond with equivalent measures until its citizens are treated fairly.

“If it is confirmed that our Nigerian artiste Ayra Starr and her team were denied entry visas to South Africa, leading to the cancellation of their engagements, then Nigeria should respond with equivalent measures until Nigerian citizens and artistes are accorded fair and respectful treatment,” she said.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, however, clarified that her position was not targeted at South African singer Tyla or any individual artiste, but was intended to promote mutual respect between both countries.

“This is not a call against Tyla as an individual. Rather, it is a call for Nigeria to uphold the principle of mutual respect that underpins international relations.”

According to the senator, reciprocity remains a recognised tool of diplomacy and should be applied where Nigerians are subjected to discriminatory or unjust treatment overseas.

“When our citizens face discriminatory or unjust treatment abroad, Nigeria must demonstrate that such actions carry corresponding consequences.”
She also urged the Federal Government to ensure that Nigeria’s foreign policy protects the dignity of its citizens wherever they are.

“Our foreign policy should protect the dignity of Nigerians everywhere and ensure that respect between nations is mutual, not one-sided.”