Nigeria’s National Assembly has suspended official visits to South Africa amid concerns over violence targeting immigrants.
The restriction also covers official online engagements with South Africa.
Nigerian lawmakers said the decision followed reports of attacks affecting Nigerian citizens in the country.
Nigeria suspends South Africa visits
According to Africanews, Nigeria’s National Assembly said it could not ignore reports of persistent attacks on its citizens abroad.
Lawmakers cited reports of Nigerians being killed, injured or displaced.
They also said some Nigerian nationals had been forced to abandon their businesses.
Nigeria has criticised South African authorities over their response to violence involving migrants.
Migrant tensions rise in South Africa
South Africa has faced a series of demonstrations over immigration in recent months.
Some protests have resulted in violent confrontations.
In Durban, protesters recently approached an encampment housing Congolese nationals.
The incident led to clashes, according to Africanews.
South Africa is home to migrants from across the continent. They include both documented and undocumented residents.
Economic pressures fuel migration debate
The country continues to struggle with high unemployment, crime and pressure on public services.
Migration has increasingly become part of the political debate surrounding those problems.
However, analysts have challenged claims that migrants are responsible for South Africa’s wider economic and social difficulties.
Meanwhile, migrant communities have raised concerns about their safety as tensions increase.
Nigeria calls for greater protection
Nigeria has repeatedly raised concerns about the treatment of its citizens in South Africa.
The latest decision increases diplomatic pressure on Pretoria to address violence involving foreign nationals.
For now, Nigeria’s suspension covers official visits and online engagements.
The development adds another layer of tension to relations between two of Africa’s largest economies.