ABUJA, NIGERIA — The Federal Government of Nigeria has begun emergency measures to evacuate Nigerians from South Africa following renewed xenophobic tensions and reported attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of the country.
Officials say the evacuation process is being coordinated through the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate-General in Johannesburg as authorities work to identify citizens willing to return home.
The move follows growing fears among Nigerians living in South Africa after reports of violence, intimidation, looting, and attacks linked to anti-immigrant protests in some communities.
According to government sources, Nigerian missions in South Africa have activated crisis response units to monitor developments, provide emergency support, and maintain communication with affected citizens.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the safety and welfare of Nigerians abroad remain a top priority, particularly in situations involving threats to life and property.
Officials are reportedly compiling lists of stranded or vulnerable Nigerians, including students, traders, business owners, and workers who may require emergency evacuation assistance.
Some Nigerians living in affected areas have described growing anxiety and fear following reports of attacks on foreign-owned businesses and incidents of harassment.
Community leaders within the Nigerian diaspora in South Africa have also urged citizens to remain calm, avoid confrontations, and stay in secure locations while authorities continue assessments.
The Federal Government said discussions are ongoing with South African authorities to ensure adequate protection for Nigerians and other foreign nationals affected by the unrest.
Diplomatic channels between both countries have reportedly intensified, with Nigeria seeking assurances that security agencies in South Africa will act decisively against violence and mob attacks.
The latest tensions have revived painful memories of previous xenophobic attacks in South Africa that led to deaths, destruction of property, and strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.
During earlier incidents, hundreds of Nigerians returned home through government-assisted evacuation programmes after widespread attacks on migrants and foreign businesses.
Analysts say recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa is often linked to economic hardship, unemployment, and social frustration, with migrants frequently blamed for local economic challenges.
Human rights groups have condemned the attacks and called on South African authorities to uphold the rights and safety of all residents regardless of nationality.
The Nigerian government has advised citizens in South Africa to remain vigilant, avoid high-risk areas, and maintain regular contact with diplomatic missions.
Officials also encouraged Nigerians requiring assistance to register with the embassy or consulate to facilitate possible evacuation arrangements.
Aviation and emergency response agencies are reportedly on standby should large-scale evacuation flights become necessary in the coming days.
Some affected Nigerians have appealed for urgent intervention, saying many families are living in fear amid uncertainty surrounding the unrest.
The Federal Government reiterated that it would continue engaging South African authorities while exploring all necessary measures to protect Nigerian citizens.
Attention now shifts to the scale of the evacuation operation and whether the security situation in South Africa will improve in the coming days.
