The Federal Government has issued a cautionary advisory to Nigerians planning to travel to Australia, citing rising security concerns in specific cities. This advisory was formally released on Tuesday by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maitama Tuggar, in a statement signed by the Ministry’s Acting Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
According to the statement, there has been an uptick in incidents of hostility and discrimination against foreigners in certain parts of Australia. Tuggar highlighted an alarming rise in Islamophobia, antisemitism, and verbal harassment targeting non-natives, which could pose a risk to Nigerian travelers and residents.
“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,” Tuggar stated.
He elaborated on specific incidents, including an unsettling event in December 2024 in the Sydney suburb of Woollahra. In that incident, a car was set on fire, and anti-Israel graffiti was sprayed on nearby buildings. This incident forms part of a broader trend of increased antisemitic and Islamophobic activities in Australia, which are believed to be linked to ongoing international conflicts and tensions.
The minister emphasized that while Australia is renowned for its multiculturalism and tolerance, recent developments have highlighted vulnerabilities in certain regions. He urged Nigerians residing in or traveling to Australia to maintain vigilance, adopt precautionary measures, and remain mindful of prevailing social and cultural dynamics to ensure their safety and comfort.
“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,” Tuggar added.
Additionally, the minister encouraged Nigerians in Australia to promptly report any instances of harassment or abuse to the Nigerian High Commission for assistance. He provided the High Commission’s contact details, stating, “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.”
This advisory underscores the government’s commitment to the safety and welfare of its citizens abroad, as it continues to monitor the situation closely and provide necessary guidance.
