Nigeria Suspends Official Parliamentary Visits to South Africa Over Anti-Migrant Violence

Relations between Nigeria and South Africa have come under renewed pressure following continued reports of violence and hostility targeting African migrants, including Nigerians, in South Africa.

Nigeria’s National Assembly has suspended all official visits to South Africa and ordered lawmakers, committees, officials and staff to boycott legislative activities hosted by South African authorities. The suspension also covers virtual parliamentary engagements and will remain in place until further notice.

The decision follows months of renewed anti-migrant protests in South Africa. Nigerian authorities say their citizens have been killed, injured, displaced and forced to abandon businesses and property during attacks.

Nigeria’s government has also been facilitating the return of citizens affected by the violence. In June, two Nigerians were killed during anti-migrant unrest, while Nigerian officials have raised concerns about the wider safety of Nigerians living and working in South Africa.

Despite the parliamentary boycott, Nigeria says the measure does not represent a break in diplomatic relations with South Africa. The National Assembly is calling on South African authorities to strengthen protection for foreign nationals, investigate attacks and prosecute those responsible.

The development puts renewed attention on the long-standing problem of xenophobia in South Africa and its impact on relations between two of Africa’s most influential economies.

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