The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has announced that Nigerians residing in South Africa are currently being profiled and documented for their voluntary return to Nigeria. This process is taking place at the Nigerian Embassy in collaboration with the Nigerian Mission and officials of the South African Home Office.
Profiling and Documentation Underway
According to a statement issued via NIDCOM's X handle on Sunday, June 7, 2026, the profiling is part of preparations for their repatriation, as approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The federal agency stated that the federal government is facilitating their returns through relevant agencies to ensure a smooth and dignified process.
NIDCOM emphasized that President Tinubu remains committed to the welfare of all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora. The statement read: "Nigerians in South Africa are currently being profiled and documented at the Nigerian Embassy in SA, in collaboration with the Nigerian Mission and officials of the South African Home Office. This is in preparation for their voluntary return home, as approved by the President. The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, NIDCOM, the Nigerian Mission in South Africa, and other relevant agencies, is actively facilitating this process to ensure smooth and dignified repatriation."
Background of Xenophobic Attacks
This development comes amid escalating xenophobic tensions in South Africa, which have directly affected Nigerian citizens. Previously, the Nigerian government summoned South Africa's Acting High Commissioner to Abuja over attacks on foreign nationals. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern over the mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and threats to bilateral relations.
In a related incident, two Nigerians—Emmanuel and Andrew Ninikanwa—were killed in South Africa during xenophobic attacks. The Consul-General demanded a thorough investigation into their deaths and warned against negative profiling of Nigerians as criminals.
NIDCOM's proactive measures aim to ensure the safety and welfare of Nigerians abroad, reflecting the government's commitment to its citizens in the diaspora.
