Veteran journalist and former presidential aide, Reuben Abati, has urged Nigerians to support Mexico in its opening World Cup match against South Africa, citing ongoing concerns over xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in the Southern African country.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Thursday, Abati referenced efforts by the Federal Government to evacuate Nigerians affected by xenophobic violence in South Africa.
According to him, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had announced that arrangements had been concluded to bring back Nigerians who registered for evacuation, with an initial batch of 278 persons expected to return home.
Abati said the government had indicated that five batches of returnees would be assisted and rehabilitated, adding that more than 1,000 Nigerians had expressed willingness to return.
He argued that the situation underscored the need for improved living conditions in Nigeria, stating that citizens would be less inclined to seek opportunities abroad if essential services such as electricity, water supply and healthcare were adequately provided at home.
Turning to football, Abati said Nigerians should back Mexico in its World Cup opener against South Africa at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.
He jokingly suggested that supporting South Africa could invite further accusations that Nigerians were taking over opportunities meant for South Africans.
Abati said: “The spokesman for the ministry of foreign affairs has said that all the arrangements have been made for those Nigerians who have signed up to be brought back to their country from South Africa because of the xenophobic
