ABUJA, NIGERIA — The Federal Government has screened and cleared more than 500 Nigerians residing in South Africa for evacuation following renewed concerns over xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals.
Officials confirmed that arrangements have been concluded for a series of evacuation flights, with five aircraft approved to convey affected citizens back to Nigeria. The first flight is expected to depart Johannesburg on Monday evening as part of the emergency repatriation exercise.
According to authorities overseeing the operation, the evacuation process follows intensified reports of violence and insecurity affecting foreign communities in parts of South Africa, prompting diplomatic intervention and urgent humanitarian response measures from the Nigerian government.
The screening exercise, which involved verifying identities and assessing eligibility for evacuation, was conducted to ensure that only Nigerians directly affected or at risk were included in the emergency relocation plan.
Government officials stated that the operation is being coordinated in collaboration with Nigerian diplomatic missions in South Africa, as well as relevant international agencies, to ensure the safe and orderly return of citizens.
The Federal Government noted that the evacuation flights would be carried out in phases, with priority given to vulnerable individuals, including families, women, and those who may have suffered direct threats or displacement as a result of the unrest.
Authorities also confirmed that contingency arrangements have been made to accommodate returnees upon arrival in Nigeria, including reception facilities and support services to assist with reintegration.
Diplomatic sources said ongoing engagement with South African authorities remains active, with efforts aimed at addressing the underlying causes of the tensions and ensuring the protection of foreign nationals still residing in affected areas.
The Nigerian government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of its citizens abroad, stressing that no effort would be spared in ensuring their safe return and protection in times of crisis.
Community leaders and diaspora representatives have welcomed the evacuation plan, describing it as a necessary step to prevent further harm and reduce the risk of escalating violence.
Meanwhile, security analysts have called for sustained diplomatic dialogue between both countries to prevent recurrence of xenophobic incidents, which have periodically strained relations in the past.
As evacuation flights commence, officials say updates will continue to be provided as more Nigerians are processed and transported back home in subsequent phases of the operation.
