Amanze Chinonye
The Nigerian Senate has approved the constitution of a joint National Assembly ad hoc committee to embark on a fact-finding and diplomatic mission to South Africa following renewed concerns over xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians, Prime Business Africa reports.
The decision was taken during plenary on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, after lawmakers debated a motion of urgent national importance, with senators expressing concern over reported cases of violence, profiling, and harassment of Nigerian citizens abroad.
The proposed delegation, expected to be led by the leadership of the National Assembly, will engage the South African Parliament and other relevant authorities on measures to curb recurring attacks. The Senate also resolved to formally notify the Speaker of the South African Parliament ahead of the visit and called for renewed implementation of existing bilateral agreements between both countries.
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Lawmakers urged the Federal Government to review outcomes of the 2019 Nigeria–South Africa Bi-National Commission, arguing that key commitments on citizen protection and migration management have not been fully enforced.
Presiding over the session, Senate President Godswill Akpabio strongly condemned the reported attacks, describing them as unacceptable and backing diplomatic engagement as the preferred response. The Senate also observed a minute’s silence in honour of Nigerians who have reportedly lost their lives in the incidents.
A separate motion by Senator Adams Oshiomhole proposing tougher measures against South African-linked businesses, including licence reviews of major companies such as MTN Group and MultiChoice Group, was not adopted, with lawmakers ruling that it could not proceed on procedural grounds and reaffirming a preference for diplomatic engagement over immediate economic action.
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The Senate also resolved to invite the Minister of Foreign Affairs to brief lawmakers on ongoing diplomatic steps taken by the Federal Government and expected outcomes from engagements with South African authorities.
The resolution comes amid renewed reports of anti-foreigner violence in parts of South Africa, a recurring issue that has previously strained relations between both countries.
Nigeria and South Africa continue to engage under the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission framework, established to address diplomatic, economic, and consular concerns, including the protection of citizens in both countries.
The National Assembly delegation is expected to proceed after consultations with the executive arm and relevant authorities, as diplomatic engagements continue in the coming days.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
