The Federal Government has concluded the evacuation of Nigerians stranded in South Africa following a wave of xenophobic attacks, with the final batch of 308 evacuees arriving safely in the country.
The latest airlift brings to an end a humanitarian evacuation exercise that saw more than 1,500 Nigerians repatriated from South Africa after violent attacks targeted foreign nationals, including Nigerian citizens.
According to the Federal Government, the evacuation was coordinated through relevant ministries and agencies in collaboration with Nigerian diplomatic missions in South Africa and aviation partners to ensure the safe return of affected citizens.
Officials said the final flight, carrying 308 evacuees, marked the successful completion of the emergency operation launched in response to concerns over the safety and welfare of Nigerians caught up in the unrest.
Many of the returnees had sought assistance from the Nigerian High Commission after violence erupted in parts of South Africa, leading to attacks on businesses, homes and properties belonging to foreign nationals.
The government said the evacuation exercise was undertaken as part of its responsibility to protect the lives and interests of Nigerians abroad during periods of crisis.
Authorities expressed appreciation to the South African government, diplomatic officials and partner organisations that facilitated the orderly evacuation process and provided support to affected Nigerians throughout the operation.
The Federal Government also commended the efforts of the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and other officials involved in coordinating documentation, transportation and welfare arrangements for the evacuees.
While welcoming the returnees, government representatives assured them of continued support, including access to reintegration programmes designed to help them settle back into life in Nigeria.
The evacuation follows renewed concerns over recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa, where foreign nationals have periodically been targeted during outbreaks of violence linked to crime, unemployment and social tensions.
Successive Nigerian governments have repeatedly condemned attacks on their citizens in South Africa and have continued to engage South African authorities through diplomatic channels to improve the safety of Nigerians residing in the country.
The conclusion of the evacuation exercise marks the end of one of the government’s largest emergency repatriation operations involving Nigerians in South Africa, underscoring ongoing efforts to provide consular assistance and protect citizens facing emergencies overseas.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora, urging citizens living abroad to remain law-abiding and maintain regular contact with Nigerian diplomatic missions, particularly during periods of insecurity or civil unrest.
