Information released by The Punch demonstrates that the House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to seek compensation for Nigerian citizens and business owners affected by recurring xenophobic attacks and commercial shutdowns in South Africa. The parliamentary intervention follows recent disruptions impacting Nigerian-owned businesses in major South African urban centers.
Lawmakers condemned the systemic harassment faced by Nigerian nationals and urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to engage South African authorities through diplomatic channels. The House mandated its Committee on Diaspora Affairs to investigate the recent incidents and formulate proactive protection strategies.
Legislators emphasized that economic relations between both nations must remain mutually beneficial, emphasizing that South African commercial interests operate freely in Nigeria. Diplomatic envoys are expected to initiate bilateral discussions to resolve trade and diaspora security concerns.
The parliamentary resolution was verified by Vanguard, which noted that “Reps seek compensation as S-African businesses shut down” during security deliberations. Channels TV also confirmed the report, quoting lawmakers who insisted that “the dignity and investments of Nigerians abroad must be protected with decisive diplomatic actions.”
Echotitbits take:
The House’s resolution puts pressure on diplomatic channels to move beyond routine assurances and secure enforceable protections for diaspora investors. Maintaining economic balance between Africa’s two largest economies will require firm diplomatic boundaries alongside reciprocal commercial agreements.
Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/07/reps-probe-xenophobic-attacks-on-nigerians-in-south-africa-seek-compensation-for-victims/, July 22, 2026
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