ABUJA — Eighty-three Nigerians are expected to arrive in Lagos from South Africa on Wednesday as the Federal Government facilitates another return of citizens amid concerns over anti-foreigner sentiments and Afrophobic attacks in the country.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, on Monday, saying the returnees are expected at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, on August 19, 2026.
The Nigerians are scheduled to depart Oliver Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg, at 3:35 p.m. local time aboard South African Airways and are expected to arrive in Lagos at about 8:45 p.m.
The latest return brings renewed attention to Nigeria’s efforts to protect citizens facing difficulties abroad following the conclusion of the government’s voluntary repatriation programme, which the ministry said facilitated the return of nearly 1,490 Nigerians from South Africa.
Private Support Facilitates Latest Return
The ministry said the latest repatriation was made possible through the intervention of private individuals who sponsored the returnees’ air tickets.
It expressed appreciation to the sponsors, describing their support as an example of the “whole of society approach” and public-private collaboration in responding to consular emergencies.
The ministry also called on the organised private sector, corporate organisations, state governments and other Nigerians at home and abroad to support similar humanitarian interventions.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Nigerians Abroad
The Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare and dignity of Nigerians at home and abroad.
According to the ministry, the government’s Citizen Diplomacy agenda regards Nigerians in the diaspora as important contributors to national development rather than a burden.
“The government remains committed to deepening strategic partnerships with host nations, including South Africa, to address the root causes of Afrophobia,” the ministry said.
It added that Nigeria would continue to push for measures to prevent violence and discrimination against Nigerians and for perpetrators of such acts to be held accountable.
Nigeria Seeks Stronger Cooperation With South Africa
The ministry said the latest development underscored the importance of continued diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and South Africa to address issues affecting Nigerians living in the country.
It also commended the private individuals and philanthropists who supported the latest evacuation, saying their intervention had helped alleviate the difficulties faced by Nigerian returnees.
The government urged other stakeholders to emulate the initiative, arguing that broader cooperation between government, the private sector and citizens would strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to respond to consular emergencies.
The 83 Nigerians are expected to arrive in Lagos on Wednesday evening as the Federal Government continues its efforts to safeguard Nigerians abroad and strengthen engagement with host countries.
