The first group of 268 Nigerian nationals evacuated from South Africa following renewed xenophobic violence has landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
The returnees were transported on an evacuation flight operated by Air Peace from Johannesburg as part of a broader repatriation effort coordinated by Nigerian authorities.
Government officials disclosed that nearly 1,000 Nigerians in South Africa have indicated interest in returning home amid rising tensions.
On arrival, the evacuees were received by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, representing the Federal Government.
The Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Alexander Ajayi, accompanied the group from Pretoria and formally handed them over to Nigerian authorities.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier authorised five evacuation flights to facilitate the return of affected citizens.
Following arrival, the evacuees underwent registration and verification procedures before being reunited with their relatives.
The evacuation comes amid escalating anti-foreigner sentiment in South Africa, where economic pressures and high unemployment have triggered protests and targeted attacks on migrants.
Authorities also confirmed that registration for Nigerians seeking voluntary repatriation has been extended until June 14, 2026.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigerians abroad, describing the evacuation exercise as part of its efforts to prioritise citizen welfare.
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