The continuing xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa took centre stage Tuesday in the National Assembly. This latest development follows reports of protests in South Africa (April 27–29, 2026) aimed at illegal immigration, which caused anxiety among foreign nationals, including Nigerians.
Following a motion by Sen. Osita Izunaso, the Senate resolved to send a high-level delegation led by President of the Senate Godswill Akpabio, to address renewed anti-foreigner sentiment in South Africa that has seen attacks on foreign nationals, including Nigerians. The delegation will consist of a joint ad hoc committee of the Senate and the House of Representatives aimed at finding lasting solutions to the crisis. As part of its mandate, the delegation is expected to visit the South African Parliament to formally express Nigeria’s strong displeasure over the reported attacks.
The Senate also plans to write to the Speaker of the South African Parliament, as well as invite the Minister of Foreign Affairs to brief lawmakers on the outcomes of their engagements.
The House of Representatives also condemned the latest wave of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, calling on the Federal Government to take immediate diplomatic and protective measures.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by Donald Ojogo (APC, Ondo) and seconded by Billy Osawaru (APC, Edo) during plenary presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
Lawmakers urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to immediately initiate diplomatic steps to halt the killings, while also calling on the administration of Bola Tinubu to begin evacuation plans for Nigerians willing to leave South Africa.
In addition, the House recommended a review of bilateral relations between both countries, including a temporary suspension of business permits for South African companies operating in Nigeria.
Current Diplomatic Developments
- Summons of Envoy: The Federal Government of Nigeria summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele, on May 4, 2026, in Abuja for urgent talks following renewed unrest.
- Voluntary Evacuation: Nigeria is making arrangements for the voluntary evacuation of its citizens from South Africa, with 130 citizens already registered for repatriation as of May 3, 2026, a number expected to rise.
- Government Stance: Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed President Bola Tinubu’s concern over anti-migrant rhetoric and protests in South Africa that targeted Nigerian businesses, noting that two Nigerians died in incidents involving security personnel last month.
- Diplomatic Assurance: South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, pledged to work with Nigeria to ensure the safety of Nigerians.
The Nigerian government has emphasised that while diplomatic channels remain active, the safety of its citizens is the priority.
