Nigeria’s National Assembly has resolved to send a high-powered delegation to South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians, in a move aimed at securing stronger protections for citizens abroad.
The decision, reached after an intense debate in both chambers, will see a joint ad hoc committee of the Senate and House of Representatives embark on a fact-finding and diplomatic mission to Pretoria. The delegation is expected to engage with the South African Parliament and other relevant authorities to formally express Nigeria’s concerns and push for concrete safeguards.
Lawmakers said the mission would also review compliance with previous bilateral agreements, particularly outcomes from the 2019 Nigeria–South Africa engagements, to ensure full implementation.
The Senate further directed that communication be established with South Africa’s parliament ahead of the visit, while also inviting Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to brief lawmakers on ongoing diplomatic efforts.
The resolutions followed a motion on the “Intensifying Xenophobic Persecution of Nigerians in South Africa and Ghana,” which drew bipartisan condemnation, with legislators describing the attacks as “barbaric” and a threat to African unity.
Lawmakers warned that continued violence and profiling of Nigerians based on nationality could strain diplomatic relations and undermine regional cooperation. They also raised concerns over the loss of lives, businesses, and livelihoods, as well as the psychological impact on victims.
During deliberations, opinions differed on the appropriate response. Senator Adams Oshiomhole advocated stronger measures, including possible economic sanctions against South African businesses operating in Nigeria. However, Senator Adamu Aliero urged caution, noting that diplomatic engagements were already underway.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasised dialogue over retaliation, stating that engagement remains the most effective path to resolving the crisis.
The Senate also called on the Federal Government to initiate high-level discussions with authorities in South Africa and Ghana to secure enforceable guarantees for the safety of Nigerians.
In addition, lawmakers demanded transparent investigations into the attacks, prosecution of perpetrators, and the establishment of a comprehensive protection framework for Nigerians in the diaspora, including emergency response systems and evacuation plans.
They further urged regional bodies such as ECOWAS and the African Union to strengthen enforcement mechanisms against xenophobic violence.
As part of its resolutions, the Senate mandated its Committees on Diaspora and Foreign Affairs to conduct a detailed investigation and report back with recommendations.
Lawmakers also observed a minute of silence in honour of Nigerians who have lost their lives in the attacks, reaffirming that the safety and dignity of citizens abroad remain a national priority.
