The first group of 268 Nigerian nationals is expected to return home from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks that have targeted foreign nationals in parts of the country.
The evacuees are scheduled to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos aboard a special evacuation flight operated by Air Peace.
Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, is expected to officially receive the returnees on behalf of the Federal Government.
The repatriation exercise comes as Nigerian authorities continue efforts to assist citizens affected by the unrest.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the screening exercise being conducted by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria for citizens wishing to voluntarily return home has been extended until June 14, 2026.
The extension is intended to allow more Nigerians impacted by the attacks to register for evacuation.
Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Alexander Ajayi, is expected to accompany the first batch of returnees on the flight back to Nigeria.
The Federal Government has also mobilised relevant agencies to facilitate the reception, documentation and reintegration of the evacuees upon arrival. Authorities say arrangements have been made to ensure that the returnees are treated with dignity and provided with the necessary support and assistance as they begin rebuilding their lives back home.
Officials reiterated that the safety and welfare of Nigerians living abroad remain a central component of the country’s foreign policy, with government institutions continuing to monitor the situation in South Africa and provide support to affected citizens.
