The first batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa after the recent wave of xenophobic attacks has arrived safely in Lagos, marking the beginning of a wider repatriation effort. A total of 268 returnees landed at Murtala Muhammed International Airport aboard an Air Peace flight arranged under the Federal Government’s program. The evacuation, initially scheduled for Monday, was delayed until Wednesday due to documentation and processing challenges before finally departing.
The exercise follows mounting concerns over the safety of Nigerians in South Africa, where xenophobic violence has forced many foreign nationals to seek assistance to return home. More than 1,000 Nigerians have indicated their willingness to leave, with additional flights planned in the coming days. Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu‑Ojukwu confirmed that the number of requests continues to rise, and the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria has been working with South African authorities to facilitate departures, including for those facing immigration issues.
To coordinate the process, the Nigerian Mission in South Africa began screening and documenting intending returnees, extending the exercise to accommodate the growing demand. In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the extension reflects the government’s commitment to protecting the welfare of Nigerians abroad, stressing that safeguarding citizens overseas remains a central pillar of Nigeria’s foreign policy. Social media reactions highlighted relief at the safe arrival of the first group, with many urging the government to accelerate efforts for those still stranded.
The arrival of the first batch underscores Nigeria’s broader responsibility to protect its citizens in times of crisis. Similar evacuation exercises have been carried out in past emergencies, including Libya in 2011, Ukraine in 2022, and Sudan in 2023, when thousands of Nigerians were repatriated amid conflict and instability. Analysts say the latest operation signals a renewed focus on humanitarian diplomacy, with the government demonstrating its resolve to respond swiftly to threats against Nigerians overseas while reinforcing its commitment to dignity and safety for all citizens abroad.
