Nigeria’s National Assembly is set to play a key role in determining the country’s response to the recent wave of anti-immigrant attacks and hostility against Nigerians in South Africa. According to Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, any decision on retaliatory measures against South Africa will require consideration at the highest levels of government, including the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The development follows growing diplomatic tensions between both countries after reports of xenophobic attacks, harassment, looting of businesses, and the deaths of some Nigerian nationals in South Africa. The Nigerian government has condemned the attacks and has already begun repatriating citizens who wish to return home, with more than 1,000 Nigerians reportedly registering for evacuation.

Lawmakers in both chambers are expected to deliberate on possible measures Nigeria could take if the situation worsens. While no specific retaliatory actions have been announced, the Senate has reportedly opened discussions on the safety of Nigerians in South Africa and the need for a firm national response.

South African authorities have defended their actions as part of efforts to address illegal immigration, but Nigerian officials insist that many affected citizens possess legal documentation and are being unfairly targeted. The crisis has revived concerns about recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa and its impact on diplomatic relations between Africa’s two largest economies.