Nigeria’s National Assembly has approved a high-level diplomatic intervention following renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa and Ghana.
The decision was reached after a heated debate in the Senate, where lawmakers described the situation as a growing threat to the safety and dignity of Nigerians abroad.
The proposed mission is expected to engage South African authorities directly and push for enforceable protection measures for Nigerian citizens.
However, the move also comes with a strong warning, as lawmakers indicated that continued violence could lead to diplomatic and economic consequences.
The ad hoc committee, drawn from both the Senate and House of Representatives, is expected to begin a fact-finding and diplomatic engagement mission in South Africa.
Meanwhile, the delegation will also interface with the South African Parliament to formally address Nigeria’s concerns over repeated attacks.
The committee is mandated to review previous bilateral agreements, including resolutions from the 2019 Nigeria–South Africa engagements.
In addition, lawmakers plan to communicate officially with the Speaker of the South African Parliament ahead of the visit.
They also resolved to invite Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to brief the National Assembly on ongoing diplomatic efforts.
The motion, described as one of urgent national importance, focused on “Intensifying Xenophobic Persecution of Nigerians in South Africa and Ghana.”
Lawmakers strongly condemned the attacks, describing them as “barbaric, unlawful and deeply troubling.”
Furthermore, the Senate warned that persistent violence against Nigerians risks damaging African unity and cooperation frameworks.
The chamber noted that many Nigerians abroad have suffered loss of lives, businesses, and long-term livelihoods due to repeated attacks.
It also stressed that verbal assurances from foreign authorities must now be matched with real enforcement actions, including arrests and prosecution of offenders.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole argued for tougher measures, suggesting economic pressure on South African business interests in Nigeria.
On the other hand, Senator Adamu Aliero urged restraint, noting that diplomatic channels were still active and should be allowed to progress.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized engagement over retaliation, stating that diplomacy remains the preferred path forward.
He added that parliamentary intervention would complement executive efforts already underway.
Moreover, lawmakers revisited Nigeria’s historical role in South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle.
