The Federal Government is set to receive 268 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks, marking the commencement of the ongoing Nigeria xenophobia evacuation programme. The returnees are expected to arrive in Lagos aboard an Air Peace flight, while relevant government agencies have been mobilised to provide reception and support services. Officials say the evacuation effort reflects Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad during periods of crisis.
The evacuation follows reports of xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, prompting affected Nigerians to seek voluntary return to the country.
In response, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in South Africa, coordinated arrangements for the safe return of citizens who indicated a willingness to come home. The operation forms part of ongoing consular support measures aimed at ensuring the safety and welfare of Nigerians residing outside the country.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, will receive the first batch of evacuees on behalf of the Federal Government. The reception is scheduled to take place at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos following the arrival of the evacuation flight.
The statement, signed by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, noted that the Acting High Commissioner of Nigeria in Pretoria, Ambassador Alexander Ajayi, will accompany the returnees to Nigeria.
Ajayi is expected to formally hand over the 268 passengers to the minister upon arrival. According to the ministry, the Air Peace evacuation flight is scheduled to land in Lagos at approximately 5:00 a.m. Officials explained that the operation represents the first phase of efforts to assist Nigerians affected by the recent attacks in South Africa.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed that screening and registration processes for Nigerians seeking voluntary repatriation have been extended until Sunday, June 14, 2026.
According to the ministry, the extension was introduced to allow more affected citizens the opportunity to participate in the Nigeria xenophobia evacuation programme. Officials said the decision demonstrates the Federal Government’s continued commitment to safeguarding the welfare and interests of Nigerians living abroad.
The ministry also confirmed that relevant ministries, departments and agencies have completed arrangements to receive the returnees. These measures include reception, documentation, profiling, and support services designed to facilitate their reintegration upon arrival.
The evacuation highlights the role of diplomatic engagement and consular assistance in responding to emergencies affecting Nigerian citizens overseas. It also underscores ongoing concerns about the impact of xenophobic violence on African migrants and foreign residents in South Africa.
Government officials have indicated that monitoring and support efforts will continue as authorities assess the needs of Nigerians affected by the situation.
