The National Assembly will set up a joint ad hoc committee to engage authorities in South Africa over growing xenophobic violence.
The committee will include members of both chambers of the National Assembly of Nigeria, It will carry out a fact-finding mission and hold diplomatic talks, lawmakers say the visit aims to find lasting solutions and protect Nigerians living in South Africa
As part of its mandate, the delegation will meet with the South African Parliament. It will formally express Nigeria’s concerns over the attacks.
The Senate also plans to write to South African lawmakers and invite Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister to provide updates on diplomatic efforts.
Lawmakers say Nigerians face not only physical attacks but also fear, profiling, and psychological trauma and stressed the need for urgent action to defend citizens’ rights and dignity.
During debate, Senator Simon Lalong called for a review of past agreements between Nigeria and South Africa. He urged both countries to implement resolutions reached in 2019.
Meanwhile, Adams Oshiomhole suggested sanctions against South African firms. However, lawmakers rejected the proposal on procedural grounds.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized diplomacy over economic retaliation. He said dialogue remains the best path to resolving the crisis. Lawmakers later observed a minute of silence for Nigerians who lost their lives in the attacks.
The NASS committee South Africa xenophobia visit signals Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad. Officials say diplomatic engagement will help ease tensions and promote cooperation between both nations.
