First batch of Nigerians fleeing xenophobic attacks in South Africa to land in Lagos Thursday

The first batch of Nigerians being evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks is expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Thursday morning, as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to bring affected citizens home safely.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, its spokesperson, who confirmed that the returnees would be transported aboard an Air Peace flight scheduled to depart O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday night.

According to the ministry, the aircraft is expected to land in Lagos at approximately 5:00 a.m. on Thursday, marking the commencement of a phased repatriation exercise for Nigerians who have opted to leave South Africa amid growing concerns over their safety.

The statement said the Federal Government has fully financed the evacuation operation and has made comprehensive arrangements to receive and support the returnees upon arrival in Nigeria.

It explained that officials from relevant government agencies would be on the ground to facilitate documentation, profiling and reintegration processes for the evacuees.

“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 repatriation flight was initially scheduled to depart on Monday but was later postponed until Wednesday due to what the ministry described as unforeseen logistical challenges.

Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of Foreign Affairs said additional time was required to complete documentation and screening procedures in collaboration with South African authorities.

The minister revealed that more than 1,000 Nigerians residing in South Africa had participated in the screening process, adding that the number of citizens seeking evacuation continued to rise as the situation evolved.

The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria reportedly secured waivers from South African authorities for individuals with immigration-related infractions.

It was learnt that at least 270 Nigerians are expected to be included in the first batch of returnees, although the figure may change as final documentation and clearance processes are concluded.

The evacuation exercise is being coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in partnership with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant government institutions.

The repatriation follows heightened concerns over attacks reportedly targeting foreign nationals in some parts of South Africa, reigniting fears among migrant communities and prompting calls for urgent intervention.

In response, Nigerian authorities initiated arrangements for the voluntary return of citizens who expressed a desire to leave the country due to security concerns.

The Federal Government had earlier reassured Nigerians living in South Africa of its commitment to protecting their interests and ensuring their welfare, while continuing diplomatic engagements with South African authorities to address the situation and guarantee the safety of Nigerians who choose to remain in the country.