The Nigeria High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa, has issued an advisory to Nigerians in the country to contain their celebrations in the event the Super Eagles of Nigeria defeat the Bafana Bafana players of South Africa in Wednesday’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final clash in Cote d’Ivoire.

In a circular dated February 6, 2024, but circulated on Monday evening, the high commission said Nigerians should be watchful of their utterances and cautious of their environment.

Nigeria will take on South Africa in what is expected to be a keen contest for both sides to negotiate a spot in the final of the 2023 AFCON.

Both countries share a history of conflict. Nigerians in South Africa have experienced xenophobic attacks, which have led to diplomatic relationship breakdowns.

The advisory, titled ‘Advisory on safe conduct for Nigerians in South Africa before, during and after 2024 AFCON match between Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana”, reads:

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“The attention of the Nigeria High Commission Pretoria has been drawn to potentially inflammatory online comments made by a section of South African citizens against Nigerians living in host country, largely influenced by the upcoming 2024 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final match between the Super Eagles and the Bafana Bafana on Wednesday 7th February 2024.

“Most of the comments consist of veiled threats against “Nigerians cooking jollof rice” before the match, and “showing pepper to Nigerians if the Bafana Bafana lose to Super Eagles”, among others.

“In this regard, the High Commission hereby advises the Nigerian community to be watchful of their utterances, be mindful of where they choose to watch the match, especially in public places, and refrain from engaging in loud, riotous or provocative celebrations should the Super Eagles win the match.

“Additionally, Nigerians should maintain the good conduct they are known for, and be law abiding before, during and after the match. Should any provocations arise, they should not be reciprocated but reported to the appropriate authorities.”

The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA) received the advisory on Monday and described it as timely.

Nigeria’s match with South Africa is scheduled for 6 pm on Wednesday. The winner of the tie would face either Cote d’Ivoire or DR Congo in the final.