LAGOS, NIGERIA — The Redeemed Christian Church of God has donated $265,854 to support the evacuation of 500 distressed Nigerians from South Africa, following a wave of xenophobic attacks that have left many Nigerian nationals displaced, destitute, and seeking urgent repatriation.
The donation, announced by the church on Friday, comes as a humanitarian intervention to assist the Federal Government’s efforts to evacuate Nigerians affected by the recent violence in South Africa, which has escalated in cities including Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban. The attacks, driven by anti-migrant sentiment and economic frustrations, have resulted in multiple fatalities, widespread displacement, and the looting of businesses owned by foreign nationals.
The RCCG’s intervention is expected to significantly bolster the evacuation efforts. According to the Federal Government, approximately 500 Nigerians have expressed interest in returning home. The church’s contribution, equivalent to approximately 400 million Naira at current exchange rates, will cover transportation, documentation, and emergency support for the returnees.
The General Overseer of RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, expressed the church’s deep concern over the plight of Nigerians in South Africa and its commitment to providing practical support to those affected. “We cannot stand by while our brothers and sisters suffer in a foreign land. The church has a responsibility to provide humanitarian assistance and to advocate for the dignity and safety of all Nigerians, wherever they may be,” Adeboye stated.
“We are mobilising resources to ensure that these Nigerians can return home safely and with dignity. This is a moment for all Nigerians to show compassion and solidarity,” he added.
The donation is among the largest single contributions by a non-governmental organisation to the repatriation effort. The church’s support will complement the Federal Government’s efforts, including the deployment of aircraft and the provision of consular services, to ensure a smooth and dignified return for the evacuees.
The Nigerian government has condemned the attacks and called on South African authorities to protect the lives and property of foreign nationals. The Federal Government has also warned that the attacks could strain diplomatic relations between the two countries and affect the broader African unity agenda.
The RCCG’s intervention has been hailed by civil society and human rights groups as a model of faith-based humanitarian action. The support is expected to provide immediate relief to hundreds of families and underscore the critical role of faith-based organisations in responding to humanitarian crises.
The first batch of evacuees is expected to arrive in Nigeria in the coming days. As the country mobilises to receive them, the RCCG’s gesture stands as a powerful reminder of the strength of collective responsibility and the enduring bond between Nigerians at home and abroad. The church has also encouraged other organisations and individuals to support the repatriation effort, as the need for assistance remains critical.
