FG Begins Evacuation of Nigerians from South Africa as Air Peace Airlifts First Returnees

The Federal Government has commenced the evacuation of Nigerian nationals affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, with the first batch of returnees expected to arrive in Lagos on Thursday morning.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, announcing that the inaugural evacuation flight would depart the Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday night.

According to the ministry, the evacuees are scheduled to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at approximately 5:00 a.m. on Thursday.

The evacuation operation is being conducted by Air Peace Airlines and fully funded by the Federal Government, ensuring that affected Nigerians are repatriated without any financial burden.

In the statement, the ministry reassured Nigerians that comprehensive arrangements had been made to receive and support the returnees immediately upon arrival. 

The ministry said relevant government agencies had been mobilised to coordinate reception, documentation and reintegration procedures.

“Upon arrival, the evacuees will undergo documentation and profiling procedures and will receive the appropriate assistance and support before being reunited with their families,” the statement noted.

The evacuation comes amid growing concerns over renewed xenophobic attacks in parts of South Africa, where foreign nationals, including Nigerians, have reportedly faced threats, harassment and violence. 

Although authorities in both countries have continued diplomatic engagements on the matter, the Nigerian government has moved to ensure the immediate safety of citizens who wish to return home. 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare and protection of Nigerians living abroad, stressing that the safety and dignity of citizens remain a priority.

The ministry also assured affected families and the general public that government agencies would continue to monitor developments closely and provide necessary support to Nigerians impacted by the crisis. 

The statement was signed by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, who said the evacuation marks the first phase of efforts to assist Nigerians caught up in the unrest.

The arrival of the first batch of returnees is expected to be followed by further assessments as authorities determine whether additional evacuation flights will be required in the coming days.