The first batch of Nigerians fleeing renewed xenophobic violence in South Africa touched down Thursday at Murtala Muhammed International Airport. All 268 evacuees arrived aboard a chartered Air Peace flight under the Federal Government’s emergency evacuation program.
They’re the first to return in a wider repatriation exercise triggered by escalating attacks, intimidation, and hostility targeting African migrants, including Nigerians, across parts of South Africa.
Officials at the airport received returnees who said they left after facing attacks, threats, and growing insecurity linked to xenophobic sentiment. The surge in violence has sparked fresh concern from Nigerian authorities and human rights groups about the safety of citizens abroad.
The flight was originally scheduled earlier this week but was delayed for documentation checks and coordination between Nigerian and South African officials. Authorities said the delay was needed to ensure proper screening and safe evacuation amid the tense situation.
The Federal Government says more than 1,000 Nigerians have registered for assisted return as the violence displaces foreign nationals. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, working with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, is coordinating the exercise.
Diplomats said talks with South African authorities have intensified to secure safe exit for affected Nigerians, including those whose immigration status got complicated during the xenophobic crackdown.
To handle the surge, authorities extended the screening and registration window in Pretoria. Identity verification, documentation checks, and safety assessments are being done to prioritize those at highest risk.
Logistics support has also been beefed up — medical checks, travel documents, and coordination for more evacuation flights as the situation evolves.
Officials confirmed the 268 arrivals are just phase one. More flights are being arranged as registration continues. Priority will go to vulnerable groups: women, children, and those directly attacked.
FG reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad while pushing diplomatic engagement with South Africa to address the root causes of xenophobia.
Returnees will also get reintegration support in Nigeria to help them recover and resettle after the trauma of the attacks.
The evacuation exercise will continue as long as xenophobic violence and insecurity persist.
_Spread the word so families with loved ones in South Africa know help is available._
