In a decisive diplomatic move, Nigeria’s House of Representatives has resolved to document the extensive financial and material losses suffered by Nigerians living in South Africa due to recurring xenophobic attacks, with the ultimate aim of securing formal compensation.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance brought before the green chamber, highlighting the persistent targeted violence, looting, and harassment directed at Nigerian businesses and citizens operating in various South African provinces.
Lawmakers expressed strong dissatisfaction over the inadequate protection provided to foreign nationals and emphasized that diplomatic engagements must move beyond verbal assurances to concrete, measurable remedies.
Key Legislative Directives
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Comprehensive Data Collation: The House Mandated the House Committee on Diaspora Affairs, alongside the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), to establish a verified registry of affected citizens and destroyed properties.
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Compensation Claims: The Federal Government was urged to engage South African authorities through diplomatic channels to demand financial restitution for verified victims.
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Legal & Diplomatic Safeguards: Lawmakers called for stricter adherence to international protocols protecting migrant workers and foreign business owners within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
Members of Parliament underscored Nigeria’s historical role in supporting South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle, arguing that the continued hostility toward Nigerian citizens undermines regional solidarity and bilateral agreements.
The House mandated its relevant committees to monitor compliance and report back within four weeks with a structured framework for pushing the compensation demands forward.
