The Federal Government is set to receive the first batch of 268 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa as authorities intensify efforts to protect citizens affected by recent xenophobic attacks.
Nigeria is preparing to welcome home the first batch of citizens evacuated from South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks that have left many Nigerians seeking safety and a fresh start back home.
According to Vanguard, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, is expected to officially receive 268 returnees at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
The evacuees are being transported aboard an Air Peace flight scheduled to arrive at about 5:00 a.m., marking the beginning of the federal government’s emergency response to the growing crisis.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the Acting Nigerian High Commissioner in Pretoria, Ambassador Alexander Ajayi, will accompany the evacuees and formally hand them over to Nigerian authorities upon arrival.
The ministry also disclosed that the registration and screening process for Nigerians willing to return voluntarily has been extended to June 14 to accommodate more affected citizens.
Officials say the decision reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of Nigerians living abroad.
To ease the transition, relevant ministries, departments and agencies have reportedly put in place reception, documentation and support mechanisms for the returnees.
The latest evacuation comes amid growing concern over attacks, intimidation and harassment targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, with many Nigerians choosing to return home while authorities continue diplomatic engagements aimed at addressing the situation.
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