Nigeria's National Assembly Suspends South Africa Engagements Amid Xenophobia

The leadership of the National Assembly has directed the suspension of all official visits to the Republic of South Africa, alongside a boycott of South African-hosted or South African-organised legislative activities and engagements, until further notice.

According to Ogunlana, the decision comes in response to continuing reports of xenophobic attacks, violence, intimidation, destruction of property, and other forms of hostility directed at Nigerians and other African nationals residing in South Africa. He said the move reflects the National Assembly's deep concern for the safety, dignity and welfare of Nigerian citizens living abroad.

"The National Assembly calls on the Government of the Republic of South Africa to take urgent and concrete measures to protect Nigerians and other African nationals, prevent further attacks.

The National Assembly leadership urged South African authorities to investigate reported incidents thoroughly, arrest suspected perpetrators and prosecute those culpable in accordance with the law," Ogunlana said.

He added that the suspension and boycott will remain in force until further notice, subject to review by the National Assembly leadership as circumstances warrant.