LAGOS, Nigeria — The Nigerian government has intensified efforts to evacuate its citizens from South Africa following renewed xenophobic violence, with multiple flights already completed and more scheduled in the coming days. Officials say the operation underscores Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its nationals abroad.
On June 11, 2026, 268 Nigerians arrived at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos aboard an Air Peace flight fully funded by the Federal Government. A second flight is scheduled to bring another 300 Nigerians later this week, with priority given to families, students, and those directly affected by the attacks. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that more than 1,200 Nigerians have registered for evacuation, and flights will continue until all willing citizens are safely repatriated. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, has overseen arrivals, while Acting High Commissioner to South Africa, Ambassador Alexander Ajayi, coordinated logistics in Pretoria.
South Africa has faced recurring xenophobic violence in 2008, 2015, 2019, and now 2026. Migrants from Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and other African nations have been targeted, with shops looted, homes destroyed, and dozens killed. The latest attacks in Johannesburg and Pretoria reignited fears and prompted Nigeria’s government to act swiftly.
On social platforms, Nigerians hailed the evacuation as a “rescue mission.” One user wrote: “Finally, our government is standing up for us. This is what leadership looks like.” South Africans defended stricter labor policies, arguing jobs must prioritize citizens amid high unemployment. Nigerian associations in South Africa praised the evacuation but urged both governments to address root causes of xenophobia.
Nigerian officials emphasized a citizen‑centered foreign policy. “No Nigerian will be abandoned abroad in times of crisis,” said Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar. Analysts warn that while evacuations ensure safety, Nigeria must prepare for reintegration challenges in its already competitive job market. Many returnees expressed relief but also sadness. “We built a life in Johannesburg, but my children were bullied for being foreign. Now we feel safer, even if the future is uncertain,” said Ngozi Umeh, a mother of three who arrived on the first flight.
Reintegration may be difficult given Nigeria’s unemployment rate, but government support programs — including small business grants and vocational training, are expected to ease the transition. While jobs open up for locals in South Africa, industries reliant on foreign expertise risk shortages. The migration underscores ongoing tensions between immigration, labor policy, and economic survival.
