The National Assembly has suspended all official visits to South Africa and announced a boycott of legislative activities hosted by the country over continuing reports of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals.
The decision is reportedly aimed at expressing Nigeria’s concern over the treatment of its citizens and other Africans living in South Africa.
Under the directive, members of the National Assembly will no longer participate in official visits or legislative engagements hosted in South Africa until further notice.
The development follows renewed concerns over reports of attacks and harassment targeting Nigerians and other African nationals in the country.
The National Assembly is expected to engage relevant government authorities and stakeholders on the issue as efforts continue to address concerns surrounding the safety and welfare of Nigerians living in South Africa.
The decision could further place diplomatic pressure on South African authorities to take stronger measures against xenophobic violence and protect foreign nationals residing in the country.
Nigeria and South Africa maintain significant diplomatic, economic and political relations, making the development a notable step by the Nigerian legislature in response to concerns over the treatment of Nigerians in South Africa.