FG to Receive 268 Nigerians Evacuated from South Africa Amid Xenophobic Attacks
Pan Afric Reporters
The Federal Government has concluded arrangements to receive the first batch of 268 Nigerians being evacuated from South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in the country.
The development underscores the government’s commitment to protecting the welfare and dignity of Nigerians abroad, as well as its citizen-centred foreign policy aimed at providing support to citizens affected by crises overseas.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and signed by its Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, will personally receive the returnees on behalf of the Federal Government at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
The evacuation flight, operated by Air Peace Airlines, is expected to arrive at about 5:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 11, 2026.
The Ministry disclosed that the Acting High Commissioner of Nigeria to South Africa, Ambassador Alexander Ajayi, will accompany the first batch of returnees from Pretoria and formally hand them over to the Federal Government upon arrival.
“In demonstration of the importance attached to the well-being of Nigerians abroad and the Federal Government’s citizen-centred foreign policy, the Honourable Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, will be at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, to receive the returnees on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria,” the statement said.
The Ministry also announced an extension of the screening exercise being conducted by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria for citizens seeking voluntary repatriation from South Africa.
According to the statement, the registration and screening process has now been extended until June 14, 2026, to allow more affected Nigerians the opportunity to return home.
“The ongoing screening exercise by the High Commission of Nigeria in Pretoria for Nigerian nationals willing to voluntarily return to the country due to the ongoing xenophobic attacks has been extended to Sunday, 14th June 2026, to accommodate more persons,” the Ministry stated.
Officials said the move reflects the Federal Government’s determination to ensure that Nigerians affected by the attacks receive adequate support, protection and assistance.
The Ministry emphasized that the safety and welfare of Nigerians living overseas remain a key pillar of Nigeria’s foreign policy and a fundamental responsibility of the government.
“It also reflects the Government’s determination to ensure that Nigerians affected by crises abroad receive the necessary support, dignity, and care,” the statement added.
The Federal Government further assured Nigerians that comprehensive arrangements have been put in place to facilitate the reception, documentation and reintegration of the returnees.
According to the Ministry, relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have been mobilised to provide the necessary support and assistance upon the arrival of the evacuees.
The evacuation comes amid growing concerns over recurring xenophobic incidents in South Africa, which have continued to affect Nigerian nationals and other foreign residents in the country.
Government officials said efforts would continue to ensure the safe return of all Nigerians willing to leave South Africa while diplomatic engagements remain ongoing to address the situation.
