268 Nigerians Evacuated from South Africa Arrive Home Amid Rising Xenophobia Concerns

The Nigerian government has begun the process of receiving citizens evacuated from South Africa following recent incidents of xenophobic violence that have raised concerns about the safety of foreign nationals living in the country.

A total of 268 Nigerians are expected to arrive in Lagos as part of the first batch of returnees under a voluntary evacuation programme coordinated by the Federal Government. The initiative was launched in response to reports of attacks targeting foreign nationals, including Nigerians, in parts of South Africa.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the returnees are being transported aboard an evacuation flight operated by Air Peace, with arrival scheduled at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

Representing the Federal Government at the reception will be Sola Enikanolaiye, who is expected to formally welcome the evacuees upon their arrival. The first group will be accompanied by Alexander Ajayi, who will oversee their handover to Nigerian authorities.

The evacuation effort comes amid growing concern over the welfare of Nigerians living in South Africa following reports of xenophobic attacks in some communities. Over the years, tensions involving foreign nationals have occasionally sparked violence, leading to diplomatic engagements between both countries and calls for stronger protections for migrants.

In a move aimed at assisting more affected citizens, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced an extension of the ongoing screening and registration process for Nigerians who wish to voluntarily return home. The exercise, initially scheduled to end earlier, has now been extended until June 14, 2026, allowing additional individuals to enroll in the evacuation programme.

Officials say the extension demonstrates the government’s commitment to safeguarding Nigerians abroad and ensuring that those who feel threatened or unsafe have an opportunity to return home through an organized process.

The ministry also assured that adequate arrangements have been put in place to support the returnees once they arrive in Nigeria. Relevant ministries, departments, and agencies have reportedly coordinated plans for reception, documentation, and reintegration assistance to help ease their transition back into the country.

For many of the evacuees, the journey home marks the end of a difficult period marked by uncertainty and security concerns. While some had built lives and businesses in South Africa, recent events prompted them to seek safety and stability back in Nigeria.

The Federal Government has continued to monitor the situation closely while engaging with South African authorities on issues affecting the welfare and protection of Nigerians residing in the country.

As the first group arrives in Lagos, attention will now turn to the implementation of support measures designed to assist the returnees and help them rebuild their lives after leaving South Africa under challenging circumstances.