269 More Nigerians Evacuated From South Africa as FG Intensifies Return Exercise

Another 269 Nigerians arrived in the country from South Africa on Tuesday as the Federal Government continues its voluntary evacuation of citizens amid concerns over xenophobic attacks and tougher immigration enforcement.

The Air Peace flight from Johannesburg touched down at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at about 10:48 a.m. with the latest batch of returnees.

Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed the arrival in a statement on Tuesday. He said officials of the Nigerian Mission in South Africa escorted the evacuees home.

The group was received at the airport by senior ministry officials led by the Director, African Affairs Department, Ambassador Haruna Ali-Gombe. Ali-Gombe conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “heartfelt greetings and assurances” to the returnees, reaffirming government’s commitment to the safety of Nigerians abroad.

“With the June 30 deadline on undocumented foreigners to leave South Africa, the Federal Government wishes to reiterate that the evacuation process is still on course,” Ebienfa said.

Tuesday’s flight brings the total number of evacuees from South Africa to 593. This includes 258 Nigerians who returned on June 11, 66 who arrived via South African Airways on June 24 with support from a private Nigerian, and the latest 269.

Ebienfa added that more evacuation flights are expected in the coming days for other Nigerians who have completed screening and been cleared for voluntary return.

He noted that the Federal Government will sustain engagement with South African authorities to ensure the safety and protection of Nigerians still in the country. Over 1,000 Nigerians have so far indicated interest in returning under the ongoing programme.