Senate seeks to address xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 - Nigeria’s Senate has resolved to set up a joint ad hoc committee with the House of Representatives to address the growing wave of xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians in South Africa.

The proposed committee, to be chaired by the leadership of the National Assembly, is expected to embark on a diplomatic and fact-finding visit to South Africa as part of efforts to identify lasting solutions to the recurring crisis.

Lawmakers said the delegation would engage directly with the South African Parliament, where it will formally convey Nigeria’s displeasure over the reported attacks on its citizens.

As part of broader diplomatic steps, the Senate also plans to communicate with the Speaker of the South African Parliament, while Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs is expected to brief lawmakers on ongoing engagements and outcomes.

The resolution followed a motion of urgent national importance sponsored by Senator Bassey, titled: “Intensifying Xenophobic Persecution of Nigerians in South Africa and Ghana: A Call for Urgent National, Diplomatic and Humanitarian Action to Defend the Dignity, Safety and Honour of Nigerian Citizens.”

During deliberations, senators expressed concern over the increasing cases of violence, as well as the psychological trauma and discrimination faced by Nigerians abroad.

“We are not only dealing with physical attacks but also a growing pattern of profiling and dehumanisation of Nigerians,” a lawmaker said during the debate.

The Senate also revisited earlier bilateral agreements reached between Nigeria and South Africa in 2019, following a motion by Senator Simon Lalong, urging their full implementation to prevent further escalation.

A proposal by Senator Adams Oshiomhole suggesting the revocation of operational licences of South African companies, including MTN and DStv, was, however, rejected on procedural grounds.

In his remarks, the Senate President stressed the need for diplomacy over economic retaliation.

“While these attacks are deeply troubling, our response must prioritise diplomatic engagement rather than punitive economic measures,” he said, adding that the Senate would treat the matter with urgency.

There was a brief disagreement among lawmakers on whether the motion should be debated behind closed doors after Senator Aliero proposed a closed session.
However, Senator Ningi and others opposed the move, insisting on transparency in handling the issue.

The Senate concluded proceedings by observing a minute of silence in honour of Nigerians who have lost their lives in xenophobic attacks in South Africa.