Nigeria extends registration for voluntary return of citizens amid South Africa xenophobic attacks

The Federal Government has extended the screening and registration exercise for Nigerians seeking voluntary repatriation from South Africa following the recent wave of xenophobic attacks.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Wednesday that the ongoing screening exercise being conducted by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria has been extended until Sunday, June 14, 2026, to accommodate more Nigerians willing to return home.

According to the ministry, the decision reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of Nigerian citizens abroad, particularly those affected by the ongoing unrest in parts of South Africa.

The statement by Kimiebi Ebienfa, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the extension underscores the priority the Federal Government places on the protection of Nigerians overseas, which remains a central pillar of the country’s foreign policy.

The ministry noted that the move also demonstrates the government’s determination to ensure that Nigerians caught in crises abroad receive adequate support, protection, dignity, and care.

According to the ministry, as part of the evacuation process, the first batch of returnees is expected to arrive in Nigeria on Thursday, June 11, aboard an Air Peace flight from South Africa.

“A total of 268 passengers are scheduled to be transported on the inaugural evacuation flight, which is expected to land at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at approximately 5:00 a.m.

“Alexander Ajayi, Acting High Commissioner of Nigeria to South Africa, is expected to accompany the returnees on the flight and formally hand them over to Nigerian authorities upon arrival”, the statement said.

It also noted that Sola Enikanolaiye, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, will receive the evacuees on behalf of the Federal Government.

The ministry said the minister’s presence at the airport is intended to demonstrate the importance the government attaches to the welfare of Nigerians living abroad and its citizen-centred foreign policy approach.

It further disclosed that comprehensive arrangements have been put in place by relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to facilitate the reception, documentation, and reintegration support for the returnees.

The Federal Government assured Nigerians that all necessary measures have been taken to ensure a smooth arrival process and provide immediate assistance to those returning from South Africa.

The evacuation exercise follows recent xenophobic attacks and tensions in parts of South Africa that have raised concerns over the safety of foreign nationals, including members of the Nigerian community.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its commitment to monitoring the situation closely while continuing to work with Nigerian diplomatic officials in Pretoria and other relevant stakeholders to safeguard the interests and welfare of affected citizens.

The government also encouraged Nigerians in South Africa who wish to participate in the voluntary return programme to take advantage of the extended registration period before the June 14 deadline.