The Federal Government has intensified efforts to assist Nigerians affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, with at least 270 citizens expected to arrive in Lagos on Thursday morning as part of the first batch of evacuees being repatriated from the country.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, who said arrangements had been concluded for the safe return of the affected Nigerians.
According to the ministry, the returnees will be flown back to Nigeria aboard an aircraft operated by Air Peace, scheduled to depart from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday night.
The flight is expected to land at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at approximately 5 a.m. on Thursday.
The evacuation follows growing concerns over renewed xenophobic attacks and hostility targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, including Nigerians who reportedly faced intimidation, attacks and threats to their safety.
Ebienfa said the Federal Government had fully taken responsibility for the evacuation exercise, including the coordination, funding and reception arrangements for the returnees upon their arrival in Nigeria.
He explained that relevant government agencies had been mobilised to ensure a smooth and orderly process for the evacuees once they arrive in Lagos.
“Upon arrival, the evacuees will undergo documentation and profiling procedures and will receive the appropriate assistance and support before being reunited with their families,” the ministry stated.
The spokesperson noted that the government remained committed to the welfare and protection of Nigerians living abroad, especially in situations involving threats to their safety and dignity.
The repatriation exercise, according to the ministry, was originally scheduled to commence on Monday but had to be shifted to Wednesday due to what officials described as “unforeseen logistical considerations.”
Despite the delay, the government assured that all necessary arrangements had now been completed to facilitate the successful evacuation of the affected Nigerians.
The development comes amid heightened concern over recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa, where foreign nationals, particularly African migrants, have repeatedly faced attacks linked to unemployment, crime and economic frustrations.
Over the years, Nigerians living in South Africa have been among those most affected during outbreaks of anti-foreigner violence, leading to diplomatic tensions between both countries and calls for stronger protection of African migrants.
The Nigerian government has consistently condemned attacks on its citizens abroad and has on several occasions engaged South African authorities over the safety and security of Nigerians residing in the country.
The latest evacuation exercise is expected to provide relief for many affected families who have expressed fears over the worsening security situation in some South African communities.
Sources within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said additional batches of returnees may also be evacuated depending on the number of Nigerians who indicate interest in returning home.
Officials said agencies responsible for immigration, emergency response and humanitarian support had been placed on standby at the Lagos airport ahead of the arrival of the evacuees.
The Federal Government also appealed to Nigerians in South Africa to remain calm and cooperate with officials handling the evacuation process while diplomatic engagements continue between both countries.
Observers say the evacuation highlights growing concerns over the recurring challenge of xenophobia in South Africa and the need for stronger regional cooperation to protect African citizens living and working across the continent.
