Nigeria’s Parliament Sends Delegation To South Africa Over Xenophobic Attacks, Threatens Sanctions
Nigeria’s Parliament Sends Delegation To South Africa Over Xenophobic Attacks, Threatens Sanctions Nigeria’s National Assembly has approved the deployment of a high-level parliamentary delegation to South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerian citizens, with lawmakers also warning that sanctions could be imposed if the situation persists. The decision was reached during a heated plenary session on Tuesday, where both chambers of the National Assembly strongly condemned the reported attacks and called for urgent diplomatic action. Lawmakers expressed deep concern over what they described as recurring violence, harassment, and profiling of Nigerians living in South Africa.
The proposed delegation, drawn from both the Senate and House of Representatives, will engage South African authorities, including the country’s parliament, to demand stronger protection measures and accountability for perpetrators. According to the resolution, the visit will also serve as a fact-finding and diplomatic mission aimed at preventing further escalation of tensions. In addition to the diplomatic visit, Nigerian lawmakers warned that sanctions could be imposed if South Africa fails to address the situation adequately.
The National Assembly is reportedly reviewing existing bilateral agreements between both countries to determine areas of non compliance and potential diplomatic or economic consequences.
However, some leaders emphasised that Nigeria’s immediate focus remains diplomatic engagement rather than confrontation.
The motion, debated under urgent national importance, was widely supported across party lines, reflecting growing frustration over repeated xenophobic incidents.
- Sending a joint Senate–House delegation to South Africa
- Engaging South African parliament and government officials
- Reviewing bilateral agreements between both nations
- Demanding accountability for attacks on Nigerians
- Considering sanctions if no improvements are made
The decision comes amid renewed reports of xenophobic incidents in parts of South Africa, where foreign nationals have faced protests, violence, and accusations linked to economic hardship and immigration concerns. Nigeria has consistently condemned such attacks, insisting that African countries must uphold regional unity and protect citizens living abroad. While some lawmakers pushed for stronger retaliatory measures, others urged caution, stressing that diplomacy remains the most effective route to resolving the crisis. The National Assembly ultimately agreed on a balanced approach: firm diplomatic pressure backed by the possibility of sanctions if necessary. Nigeria’s decision to send a parliamentary delegation marks a significant escalation in its response to xenophobic attacks in South Africa. As tensions continue to rise, the outcome of the planned visit could shape future relations between both African powerhouses.
