The Nigerian government said more than 500 nationals have already been screened and cleared for departure, while at least 1 094 citizens have registered interest in returning home. The evacuation is being carried out on a voluntary basis through a coordinated process involving diplomatic missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg.
Nigeria Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa said the decision to repatriate citizens followed numerous distress calls from Nigerians reporting harassment, threats and intimidation linked to ongoing protests. Ebienfa said concerns raised by citizens prompted the government to assess the situation and activate evacuation measures.
Ebienfa said the first group of evacuees will travel on an aircraft with a capacity of 270 passengers, forming part of a broader operation approved by the Nigerian government. Ebienfa said a total of five evacuation flights have been authorised, intended to accommodate those who have registered for assistance.
According to Ebienfa, Nigerians opting to return fall into two main categories. The first includes individuals and families who are in the country legally but have chosen to leave due to safety concerns and the impact of protests on daily life. Ebienfa said some families reported facing verbal abuse and harassment, with children affected in schools and communities.
The second group consists of individuals without valid documentation. Ebienfa said many had initially entered SA legally but overstayed visas or were unable to regularise their status, leading to increased vulnerability. Ebienfa said the repatriation programme provides an opportunity for such individuals to return home voluntarily.
Ebienfa said the Nigerian government has engaged SA authorities through diplomatic channels, including meetings with the acting High Commissioner in Abuja. Ebienfa said the discussions focused on ensuring the safety of foreign nationals and addressing concerns about calls by protest groups for migrants to leave the country.
While describing relations between Nigeria and SA as strong and longstanding, Ebienfa said the situation has raised concerns, particularly given Nigeria’s historical support for SA during the anti-apartheid struggle. Ebienfa said the government expects a constructive response from SA authorities and will continue monitoring developments.
–ChannelAfrica–
