Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, has called on the Federal Government and the Nigeria Immigration Service to review visa applications submitted by South African artistes and their entourages based on the principle of reciprocity.

The call follows the controversy surrounding the cancellation of South African singer Tyla’s planned concert in Lagos and allegations of unfair treatment of Nigerian artistes.

In a statement issued on Friday, Akpoti-Uduaghan cited reports that Nigerian singer Ayra Starr and members of her team were previously denied entry visas to South Africa, resulting in the cancellation of their scheduled engagements.

Akpoti-Uduaghan said Nigeria should not remain passive while its citizens face unfair treatment abroad, stressing that the country’s foreign policy must be guided by the principle of mutual respect and 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.

She added that if reports of Ayra Starr’s visa denial are confirmed, Nigeria should implement reciprocal measures until Nigerian citizens are accorded fair and equal treatment.

“If it is confirmed that our Nigerian artiste Ayra Starr and her team were previously 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,” the senator stated.

The lawmaker, however, clarified that her position was not aimed at Tyla or any South African artiste personally, but was intended to ensure that Nigeria’s diplomatic relations are anchored on fairness and mutual respect.

“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,” she explained.

Describing reciprocity as a well-established principle of international diplomacy, Akpoti-Uduaghan argued that discriminatory treatment of Nigerians abroad should be met with appropriate reciprocal measures.

“When our citizens face discriminatory or unjust treatment abroad, Nigeria must demonstrate that such actions carry corresponding consequences,” she said.

She also called on the Federal Government to ensure that Nigeria’s foreign policy safeguards the dignity and rights of its citizens wherever they are in the world.

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

The senator’s statement has sparked fresh debate on social media, with Nigerians divided over whether the country should adopt stricter reciprocal visa policies in response to alleged discriminatory immigration practices against its citizens.