Nigeria’s Senate has renewed pressure on the Federal Government to take decisive diplomatic steps following fresh concerns over the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa, warning that continued attacks on citizens could eventually affect relations between both countries.
The lawmakers’ position came during Tuesday’s plenary after a motion raised concerns over reports of an alleged ultimatum issued to Nigerians residing in South Africa on June 30, 2026, alongside recurring incidents of xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals.
Senate Demands Immediate Diplomatic Action
During the debate, senators unanimously condemned the reported attacks, describing them as a direct threat to the lives, businesses and human rights of Nigerians abroad.
The upper legislative chamber called on the Federal Government to immediately engage South African authorities through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria to secure formal assurances that Nigerians living and working in the country will receive adequate protection.
Lawmakers also insisted that individuals responsible for attacks against Nigerians should be identified, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with South African law.
Calls for Tougher Measures
Some senators argued that Nigeria should adopt a firmer diplomatic stance if the attacks continue.
Senator Salihu Mustapha maintained that repeated incidents of violence against Nigerians cannot continue without a stronger response from Abuja, stressing that the country must demonstrate its commitment to protecting its citizens overseas.
He suggested that Nigeria should consider reviewing its diplomatic engagement with South Africa if meaningful action is not taken to end the attacks.
Caution Against Immediate Diplomatic Breakdown
While several lawmakers supported stronger diplomatic pressure, former Senate Leader Yahaya Abdullahi urged restraint.
He argued that the recurring incidents may not simply represent isolated acts of xenophobia but could also be influenced by broader political developments within South Africa.
According to him, Nigeria should carefully assess the wider political context before making decisions that could significantly affect bilateral relations between the two African nations.
His remarks encouraged lawmakers to balance the protection of Nigerian citizens with broader diplomatic and regional interests.
Compensation and Documentation of Victims
Beyond seeking security guarantees, the Senate directed relevant government agencies to compile comprehensive records of Nigerians affected by previous attacks.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), and the Nigerian High Commission were instructed to document cases involving Nigerians who have been:
- Killed
- Injured
- Displaced
- Unlawfully detained
- Victims of property destruction or business losses
The documentation is expected to support future efforts to seek compensation for affected victims where appropriate.
Senate Pushes for Continental Response
Recognising that xenophobic violence has affected citizens from several African countries over the years, lawmakers also recommended a broader regional solution.
The Senate urged the Federal Government to collaborate with the African Union and other African governments to establish an early-warning framework capable of identifying rising tensions before violence erupts.
Lawmakers also proposed an accountability mechanism that would encourage member states to respond swiftly whenever attacks against foreign African nationals occur.
Committee Assigned to Review Previous Resolutions
To assess progress made on earlier legislative interventions, the Senate directed its Committees on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Affairs to review the implementation of previous resolutions relating to xenophobic attacks.
The committees have been given two legislative weeks to submit their findings and recommendations.
Background: Nigeria and South Africa’s Longstanding Xenophobia Concerns
Nigeria and South Africa maintain one of Africa’s most significant diplomatic and economic relationships. However, that partnership has repeatedly faced tension following outbreaks of xenophobic violence over the past two decades.
Previous attacks have affected businesses owned by Nigerians and other African nationals, prompting diplomatic protests, emergency meetings and calls for stronger protection of foreign residents.
While South African authorities have consistently condemned xenophobic violence, Nigerian officials have frequently demanded greater accountability and more effective law enforcement whenever such incidents occur.
Why This Story Matters
The Senate’s latest resolutions reflect growing concern over the welfare of Nigerians living abroad and signal that Nigeria may be prepared to adopt a firmer diplomatic approach if attacks persist.
The coming weeks will likely focus on South Africa’s response to Nigeria’s request for written security guarantees, as well as the outcome of the Senate committees’ review of previous government actions.
For thousands of Nigerians living, studying and operating businesses in South Africa, the government’s next diplomatic steps could play an important role in determining future protections and bilateral engagement.
Kindly Share:
Discover more from LMSINT MEDIA
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.