President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate evacuation of more Nigerian citizens from South Africa following renewed anti-migrant protests and growing fears of xenophobic violence.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, announced the decision in a statement shared on her official X account on Monday. She said the evacuation is part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to protect Nigerians living in South Africa as tensions continue to rise.
According to the minister, an evacuation flight operated by Air Peace and fully funded by the Federal Government was scheduled to arrive at Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Monday to bring home Nigerians who wish to leave before the deadline issued by anti-migrant groups.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu explained that the latest operation follows an earlier evacuation approved by the government last week. During that exercise, 66 Nigerians, mostly women and children considered to be in vulnerable situations, were safely returned to Nigeria through Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on June 24.
She said President Tinubu has instructed that the evacuation programme should continue even after the deadline set by anti-migrant groups expires. According to her, the government is determined to ensure that every Nigerian who wishes to return home has the opportunity to do so safely.
The minister noted that several government agencies will work together to receive and assist the returnees upon arrival in Lagos. These include the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM). The agencies will conduct documentation, health screenings, and profiling to support the safe reintegration of the evacuees.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting Nigerians living abroad. She said the safety and welfare of citizens outside the country remain a central part of the government’s citizen diplomacy policy under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
She added that Nigeria remains committed to standing by its citizens during difficult times, especially those facing threats or insecurity abroad. The minister also welcomed the returning Nigerians, assuring them that the government would continue to provide support throughout the evacuation process.
The latest evacuation comes as South Africa prepares for planned anti-migrant demonstrations that have raised fears of violence against foreign nationals. Authorities in South Africa have increased security ahead of the protests, while several African governments have also taken steps to assist their citizens who wish to leave the country.
Nigeria’s latest evacuation effort reflects the government’s determination to protect its citizens during periods of heightened tension and ensure that vulnerable Nigerians have a safe route back home if they choose to return.