The Nigerian government has evacuated the third batch of Nigerians stranded in South Africa following the ongoing xenophobic attacks on African nationals.
269 Nigerians arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Tuesday, June 30, in an evacuation flight operated by Air Peace airline from Johannesburg.
According to a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the latest batch brings the total number of returnees to 335, following the arrival of 66 Nigerians on June 24 through South African Airways.
“The batch of 269 evacuees, escorted by officials of the Nigerian mission in South Africa, were officially received at the airport by senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by the Director, African Affairs Department, Amb. Haruna Ali-Gombe,” Ebienfa stated.
He said Ali-Gombe conveyed the heartfelt greetings and assurances of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the returning nationals and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of Nigerian nationals living outside the country.
Pinnacle Daily has reported the arrival of the first batch of 258 Nigerians on June 11.
South Africa gave June 30 as deadline for undocumented foreigners to leave the country.
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The Nigerian government assured that more evacuation flights will be operated in the subsequent days to bring more people who wish to voluntarily return home.
Ebienfa promised that the Federal Government will continue to engage South African authorities at the highest level to ensure the protection of Nigerian nationals living in the country.
Victor Ezeja is a Nigerian journalist skilled in producing insightful news analyses, feature stories, and interviews that simplify complex issues and drive informed public discourse. His work combines rigorous research, balanced reporting, and compelling storytelling to highlight developments shaping industries and society. Victor, who holds a Master's Degree in Mass Communication, specializes in energy, aviation, business, and economic reporting. He can be reached via @VICTOREZEJA on X