Nigeria Halts Official Delegations to South Africa Amid Escalating Anti-Migrant Violence

Nigeria's parliament has officially banned all visits to South Africa in strong protest against ongoing violence directed at immigrants, which includes targeted attacks on Nigerian citizens.

“All official visits to the Republic of South Africa by the National Assembly, its Committees, lawmakers, officials and staff are hereby suspended,” stated Akin Rotimi, spokesman for the lower chamber, on Friday. The restriction covers virtual engagements as well, following months of anti-foreigner demonstrations across South Africa that have forced tens of thousands to abandon the country.

“The National Assembly cannot ignore persistent attacks on citizens abroad,” Rotimi emphasized. Kamoru Ogunlana, the clerk to Nigeria’s national assembly, noted in an official statement that parliament is deeply troubled by reports of Nigerians suffering deaths, injuries, displacement, and the loss of businesses and homes due to recurring violence.

South Africa remains a major destination for migrants, but struggles with high unemployment, strained social services, and elevated crime rates, which analysts note are frequently blamed on foreign nationals despite underlying government challenges. Nigeria has taken a leading stance in condemning the violence, arguing that South African authorities have failed to adequately protect foreigners.

Recent incidents include clashes in Durban involving Congolese nationals, alongside door-to-door expulsions affecting even documented individuals. In June, two Nigerians were killed during the unrest, adding to a toll that, according to Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, reached at least 98 Nigerians killed in mob and hate-related violence since 2022.

Following meetings between Enikanolaiye and South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola in Abuja, tensions remain high. Official South African figures indicate nearly 90,000 individuals have been deported or repatriated, while home country governments estimate the total to be around 178,000.