The Federal Government has announced that the first batch of Nigerian nationals being evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks will arrive in Nigeria on Thursday morning.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, confirming that the evacuation exercise would commence with the departure of affected Nigerians from Johannesburg on Wednesday night.
According to the ministry, the returnees are expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at about 5:00 a.m. on Thursday.
The ministry stated that the evacuation operation would be carried out by Air Peace Airlines as part of efforts by the Federal Government to ensure the safe return of Nigerians affected by the attacks.
It added that the Federal Government had fully funded the evacuation exercise, stressing that none of the evacuees would bear any financial cost for their return.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria has fully funded the evacuation exercise; consequently, all affected Nigerians will be repatriated at no cost to them,” the ministry said.
Government Arranges Support for Returnees
The ministry also assured Nigerians that adequate measures had been put in place to receive and support the returnees upon their arrival in the country.
It explained that relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies had concluded arrangements to provide the necessary assistance to the evacuees as part of the reintegration process.
According to the statement, the returnees will undergo documentation and profiling procedures before receiving appropriate support and assistance.
READ ALSO:
- Xenophobic Attacks: Retaliation Against South African Firms Will Hurt Nigeria — Expert
- Xenophobia: 130 Nigerians Register for Voluntary Evacuation from South Africa
- How Growing Xenophobic Wave Targets Nigerians Across Africa
- FG Clears 500 Nigerians in South Africa for Evacuation, Approves 5 Repatriation Flights
The ministry noted that the reception arrangements were designed to ensure a smooth transition for the affected Nigerians and facilitate their reunification with their families.
“Upon arrival, the evacuees will undergo documentation and profiling procedures and will receive the appropriate assistance and support before being reunited with their families,” the statement added.
The evacuation follows recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa that affected several foreign nationals, including Nigerians, prompting the Federal Government to activate emergency measures for the safe return of its citizens.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.