Nigeria suspends legislative ties with South Africa over xenophobia

Nigeria's parliament has indefinitely suspended all official legislative visits and engagements with South Africa in response to ongoing xenophobic violence against Nigerians and other African migrants. The decision, announced on Friday, September 11, 2026, marks a significant diplomatic protest by the National Assembly. The suspension was enacted following consultations between the leadership of the Senate and the House of Representatives. It covers all official visits to South Africa by lawmakers, committees, officials, and staff, and extends to participation in any legislative activities hosted or organized by South African institutions. The boycott applies to both physical and virtual engagements and will remain in force until further notice. The National Assembly cited persistent reports of xenophobic attacks, violence, intimidation, and destruction of property targeting Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa. In a statement, the legislature expressed grave concern over reports that Nigerians have been killed, injured, displaced, or forced to abandon their businesses and homes as a result of recurring violent attacks.