Xenophobic Attacks: First Evacuation Flight from South Africa Postponed

The Federal Government has postponed the evacuation of Nigerians seeking to leave South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks, shifting the departure of the first batch of returnees from Monday to Wednesday.

The development comes as authorities intensify efforts to ensure the safe and orderly repatriation of citizens affected by growing tensions and anti-foreigner violence in parts of South Africa.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the delay was necessitated by unforeseen logistical challenges.

Ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa explained that all arrangements were being fine-tuned to ensure a seamless evacuation process. According to him, President Bola Tinubu has approved five special evacuation flights to facilitate the return of Nigerians who have voluntarily indicated their desire to leave South Africa. The operations will be handled by Air Peace, one of Nigeria's leading private airlines.

"The proposed airlifting of the first batch of returnees from South Africa, originally scheduled for Monday, has been rescheduled to Wednesday due to unforeseen logistical considerations," the ministry stated.

Officials said the first flight is expected to transport approximately 270 passengers from Johannesburg once all diplomatic clearances and aviation permits are fully secured. The government also announced an extension of its screening and verification exercise for Nigerians seeking evacuation.

"I received confirmation from our Mission in Pretoria that the screening exercise of Nigerian nationals who have indicated interest in being evacuated back home has been extended to Wednesday," Ebienfa said.

"So far, more than 500 persons have been screened and cleared."

The evacuation initiative follows a recent surge in xenophobic incidents that have once again drawn attention to the vulnerability of foreign nationals living and working in South Africa.

Over the years, several outbreaks of anti-immigrant violence have targeted African migrants, including Nigerians, resulting in deaths, injuries, property destruction and diplomatic tensions across the continent.

The latest developments have reignited concerns among African governments and regional organisations about the safety of migrant communities and the need for stronger protections.

Nigeria and South Africa, Africa's two largest economies, have historically enjoyed strong diplomatic and economic ties. However, repeated episodes of xenophobic violence have periodically strained relations between both countries. Officials say the evacuation exercise remains voluntary and is designed to provide an option for citizens who no longer feel safe remaining in South Africa.

As preparations continue, Nigerian authorities have assured affected citizens that their welfare remains a priority while diplomatic engagements with South African authorities continue to address the underlying tensions.

For hundreds of Nigerians awaiting departure, Wednesday's flights could mark the beginning of a difficult journey home after weeks of uncertainty and fear.