Nigeria-South Africa Tensions Deepen Over Attacks on Nigerians

Nigeria’s National Assembly has suspended official parliamentary visits and legislative engagements with South Africa following continuing reports of attacks against Nigerians and other African migrants.

The decision means Nigerian lawmakers will no longer take part in legislative activities hosted or organised by South African institutions until further notice.

The move comes as concern grows in Nigeria over the safety of its citizens living and doing business in South Africa.

According to Nigerian officials, 98 Nigerians have died in mob and hate-related incidents in South Africa since 2022. About 1,695 Nigerians have also been voluntarily evacuated from South Africa this year amid the tensions.

The Nigerian parliamentary action does not cover official government-to-government meetings. It is, however, a strong political signal that Abuja is becoming increasingly frustrated with the situation.

South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola visited Abuja in July, where he reaffirmed South Africa’s opposition to xenophobia.

Monafrika’s Take

Nigeria and South Africa are two of Africa’s biggest economies. Their relationship should be built on cooperation, not repeated disputes over the treatment of African citizens.

The safety of Nigerians abroad must remain a serious responsibility for the Nigerian government. At the same time, South Africa must ensure that legitimate migrants are protected and that criminal behaviour is dealt with individually rather than through attacks on entire communities.