In a decisive move on Friday, the Nigerian National Assembly announced an indefinite suspension of official visits to South Africa. The decision follows a series of violent anti‑immigrant protests that have left dozens of Nigerians dead, injured, and forced to abandon homes and businesses.
Parliamentary statement
Kamoru Ogunlana, clerk of the National Assembly, issued a statement describing the suspension as a “strong expression” of concern for the safety and welfare of Nigerians living and conducting legitimate enterprises in South Africa. He highlighted reports of Nigerians being killed, injured, displaced and compelled to abandon their investments as a direct result of recurring violent attacks.
Background on the unrest
South Africa has long attracted migrants from across the continent, drawn by its relative wealth and job opportunities. However, periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence have plagued the country, with protesters blaming foreign workers for high unemployment, crime and pressure on public services.
In June, two Nigerians were killed during anti‑immigrant riots, one allegedly by police officers and the other by unidentified assailants. The Nigerian foreign ministry estimates that at least 98 Nigerians have been killed since 2022 in mob attacks, hate‑related violence and extrajudicial killings.
Diplomatic engagement
Earlier this year, Nigeria’s minister of state for foreign affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, hosted South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola in Abuja. The meeting addressed the ongoing attacks and underscored the need for stronger protection of Nigerian nationals.
South African government figures show that nearly 90,000 people have either voluntarily repatriated or been deported since the migration tensions began. Home‑country governments, however, report a higher total of about 178,000 affected individuals.
Implications for bilateral ties
The parliamentary suspension sends a clear signal to South Africa that Nigeria will not tolerate continued threats to its citizens abroad. While diplomatic channels remain open, the move may strain trade, investment and people‑to‑people links between the two nations.
Stakeholders in both countries are watching closely. Nigerian business owners in South Africa fear loss of market access, while South African officials stress the importance of addressing the root causes of xenophobic sentiment.
What comes next?
Parliament’s action does not preclude future dialogue, but it places pressure on South African authorities to improve security for foreign nationals. The suspension will stay in effect until the Nigerian Assembly is satisfied that adequate safeguards are in place.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
