Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal Government has approved five evacuation flights to bring back over 500 Nigerians who have been screened and cleared for voluntary return from South Africa amid rising concerns over xenophobic tensions and anti-foreigner protests in the country.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the evacuation exercise is part of efforts to ensure the safety and welfare of Nigerian citizens who have indicated their desire to return home.
According to the ministry, the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria has been working closely with South African authorities to verify and screen Nigerians seeking evacuation. More than 500 individuals have successfully completed the screening process and are expected to be transported back to Nigeria through the approved flights.
The government disclosed that the evacuation flights will be operated by Air Peace, with the first flight expected to airlift about 270 passengers from Johannesburg once all necessary aviation clearances are secured.
Officials said the screening exercise was extended to allow more Nigerians who wish to return home to register and complete the verification process. Reports indicate that over 1,000 Nigerians have expressed interest in returning to Nigeria following recent anti-immigration protests and growing concerns about the safety of foreign nationals in some parts of South Africa.
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