Another group of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa has safely arrived in Lagos as the Federal Government continues its voluntary repatriation programme for citizens seeking to return home amid rising anti-immigration tensions in the southern African nation.
The latest batch of returnees arrived aboard an Air Peace flight that landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Tuesday morning. About 271 Nigerians were on board the flight after departing Johannesburg earlier in the day. Officials from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) were present to receive the returnees upon arrival.
Government Continues Voluntary Evacuation Exercise
The evacuation is part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to assist Nigerians who voluntarily opted to return home following growing concerns over anti-immigration protests and reports of xenophobic tensions in parts of South Africa.
Authorities have maintained that the exercise is aimed at ensuring the safety and welfare of Nigerian citizens who no longer feel secure remaining in the country. Additional evacuation flights are expected as more Nigerians indicate their willingness to return.
Agencies Welcome Returnees
Officials from relevant government agencies coordinated the arrival of the evacuees and carried out the necessary documentation and reception procedures at the airport.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, alongside other agencies, has continued to reassure returnees that support measures are being put in place to help ease their transition back into the country.
Previous batches of evacuees also received various forms of humanitarian assistance and reintegration support after arriving in Nigeria.
Rising Concerns Over Xenophobic Tensions
The latest evacuation follows growing anxiety among foreign nationals in South Africa after anti-immigration groups announced plans for protests targeting undocumented migrants and foreign residents.
Although South African authorities have repeatedly urged citizens to remain peaceful and respect the rule of law, concerns over the possibility of violence prompted many Nigerians to register for the voluntary evacuation programme.
Nigeria and South Africa have experienced periodic diplomatic tensions in the past due to attacks on foreign nationals, including Nigerians, during previous outbreaks of xenophobic violence.
More Flights Expected
Officials say the evacuation exercise will continue until all registered Nigerians who wish to return home have been safely transported back to Nigeria.
The Federal Government has also encouraged Nigerians still living in South Africa to remain in contact with the Nigerian High Commission and follow official advisories regarding their safety.
While many returnees expressed relief at arriving home safely, authorities say efforts will continue to monitor the situation in South Africa and provide assistance to citizens who may still require support.
The latest evacuation highlights the government’s ongoing commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad during periods of uncertainty and ensuring that those wishing to return home can do so safely.
The Koko of the Matter Be Say 🇳🇬
Another group of Nigerians don land safely for Lagos after Federal Government arrange evacuation flight from South Africa because of growing fear over anti-immigration protests and possible xenophobic attacks.
About 271 Nigerians arrive aboard Air Peace flight, and officials from NEMA, Immigration, and NiDCOM welcome them for the airport.
Government talk say the evacuation na voluntary, and more flights go still happen until every Nigerian wey register to come back home don return safely. Many of the returnees express relief say dem finally reach Nigeria without any problem.
