The Federal Government has confirmed that the initial group of Nigerians being repatriated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks will arrive at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Thursday morning.
Evacuation Details
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced that the evacuation flight, operated by Air Peace, is scheduled to land at approximately 5:00 a.m. local time. The aircraft will depart from Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday night.
Ebienfa emphasized that the Federal Government has fully financed the repatriation operation and has established comprehensive reception and support measures for the returnees.
Processing and Support
“Upon arrival, the evacuees will undergo documentation and profiling procedures and will receive appropriate assistance and support before being reunited with their families,” the statement read. The government is coordinating with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant bodies to ensure a smooth process.
The evacuation was originally slated for Monday but was postponed to Wednesday due to what the ministry described as “unforeseen logistical considerations.” Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, explained that the delay was necessary to finalize documentation and screening processes in collaboration with South African authorities.
Scope of Repatriation
According to the minister, over 1,000 Nigerians in South Africa participated in the screening exercise, though the number of prospective returnees continues to grow. Nigeria’s High Commission in Pretoria successfully negotiated waivers with South African authorities, allowing Nigerians with immigration-related offenses to depart through the repatriation arrangement instead of facing detention.
At least 270 Nigerians are expected to be part of this first batch of evacuees. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to address the broader situation of xenophobic attacks.
