268 Nigerian Returnees Arrive in Lagos Amid Rising Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa

The first group of Nigerians evacuated after recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa has arrived safely in Lagos. A total of 268 returnees landed at Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Thursday on an Air Peace flight organised by the Federal Government.

The evacuation, initially scheduled for Monday, was postponed to Wednesday due to documentation and processing challenges.

Growing Concerns Over Safety

The repatriation follows increased concerns for Nigerians in South Africa amid rising reports of xenophobic violence. Many citizens requested government assistance to return home, prompting coordinated evacuation efforts.

The Federal Government reported that over 1,000 Nigerians have expressed interest in leaving South Africa. Officials expect additional evacuation flights in the coming days to meet this demand.

Government Coordination and Support

Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu confirmed that requests for repatriation continue to increase. She stated that the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria is working with South African authorities to ensure safe returns, including for citizens with immigration issues.

Authorities ensured that Nigerians with unresolved documentation issues were allowed to depart on evacuation flights rather than face detention. The screening and documentation process by the Nigerian Mission in South Africa aimed to accommodate all applicants efficiently.

Extended Evacuation Efforts

The evacuation, initially set to conclude over the weekend, was extended due to the increasing number of applicants. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasised that this extension demonstrates the government’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians abroad.

“This underscores the priority accorded to the protection of Nigerian citizens overseas, a central pillar of Nigeria’s foreign policy,” the ministry stated.

Beginning of a Broader Repatriation Program

The arrival of this first group marks the beginning of a broader effort to assist Nigerians affected by unrest in South Africa. Government officials welcomed the returnees at the airport and assured them of continued support as more flights are planned in the coming weeks.

This evacuation initiative demonstrates the Nigerian government’s proactive approach to citizen safety and ongoing diplomatic coordination with South African authorities.