FG Begins Evacuation of Nigerians from South Africa as First Returnees Arrive Thursday

The Federal Government has commenced the evacuation of Nigerians affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, with the first batch of returnees expected to arrive in Lagos on Thursday.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the evacuation operation is underway and that all transportation costs are being covered by the government.

Signed by ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the statement said the affected Nigerians would depart from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday night aboard an Air Peace aircraft.

The flight is scheduled to arrive at Murtala Muhammed International Airport at approximately 5:00 a.m. on Thursday.

“The first batch of Nigerian nationals that will be evacuated from the Republic of South Africa due to Xenophobic attacks will depart the Oliver Thambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday night, and the expected time of arrival at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos is 5.00am on Thursday morning,” the ministry stated.

Officials stressed that no Nigerian affected by the attacks will be required to pay for the journey home.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria has fully funded the evacuation exercise; consequently, all affected Nigerians will be repatriated at no cost to them,” the statement added.

Authorities also disclosed that comprehensive reception plans have been put in place to support the returnees after their arrival in Nigeria.

Relevant government agencies have been directed to provide assistance, including documentation, profiling and reintegration support, to help ease their transition back home.

The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad and ensuring their welfare regardless of where they reside.

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