The Nigerian Senate has rejected calls to nationalise South African companies operating in the country, including MTN and DStv, despite growing outrage over renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.
Although lawmakers ruled out economic retaliation, the Senate strongly condemned the attacks and urged the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic efforts to safeguard Nigerians living in South Africa.
The debate followed a fresh wave of anti-foreigner violence after a June 30, 2026, deadline issued by South African vigilante groups ordering foreign nationals to leave the country expired.
During deliberations, Senator Eshilokun Wasiu proposed the nationalisation of South African-owned businesses in Nigeria, while Senator Adams Oshiomhole suggested that profits made by South African companies be used to compensate Nigerians who lost loved ones, businesses, and property during the attacks if the South African government refuses to pay compensation.
"We cannot allow Nigerians to suffer such losses and then use Nigerian taxpayers' money to compensate them while South African businesses continue to make profits here," Oshiomhole argued.
However, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin urged lawmakers to exercise caution, warning against relying solely on unverified social media reports.
Jibrin acknowledged the seriousness of the attacks but insisted that the Senate should await the findings of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs before taking further action.
He subsequently directed the committee to conclude its investigation and submit its report within two weeks.
The Senate reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad while calling on the Federal Government to engage South African authorities diplomatically to prevent further attacks on Nigerian citizens.
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