The Federal Government has announced the evacuation of the first batch of Nigerian nationals affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, with returnees scheduled to arrive in Lagos early Thursday morning.
In a statement on Tuesday, 9 June 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the evacuees will depart Johannesburg’s Oliver Tambo International Airport on Wednesday night aboard Air Peace Airlines and arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at about 5:00am.
The ministry said the evacuation exercise is fully funded by the Federal Government, ensuring that all affected Nigerians will be repatriated at no cost.
According to the statement, relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies have been mobilised to receive the returnees, who will undergo documentation and profiling on arrival before being assisted to reunite with their families.
It added that adequate support arrangements have been put in place to ensure the safe arrival and reintegration of the affected citizens.
The development follows renewed tensions and reports of harassment targeting Nigerians in parts of South Africa.
The Ministry reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to protecting the welfare and dignity of its citizens abroad.
