Federal Government has commenced arrangements for the voluntary repatriation of Nigerians in South Africa following renewed anti-foreigner tensions and protests in parts of the country.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mrs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed that the repatriation process had begun, with at least 130 Nigerians already registered for voluntary evacuation flights back to Nigeria.
The minister said the government remained committed to protecting the safety and welfare of Nigerians abroad amid reports of growing hostility toward foreign nationals in some South African communities.
The development follows renewed protests and xenophobic rhetoric in parts of South Africa, particularly in cities such as Pretoria and Johannesburg, where some demonstrators have blamed undocumented migrants for economic hardship, unemployment, and insecurity.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that Nigerian diplomatic missions in South Africa were working closely with affected citizens and relevant authorities to coordinate the evacuation process and ensure the safety of those willing to return home.
She urged Nigerians in South Africa to remain law-abiding, avoid areas of tension, and maintain regular contact with Nigerian diplomatic missions for updates and support.
According to available information, the repatriation arrangement is voluntary and targeted at Nigerians who wish to return due to concerns over their safety or livelihood amid the heightened tensions.
This is not the first time Nigeria has initiated evacuation flights from South Africa following xenophobic attacks. In previous instances, the government, in collaboration with local carriers, facilitated the return of hundreds of Nigerians affected by violence and targeted attacks on foreign-owned businesses.
Analysts say the latest development highlights the recurring diplomatic and migration challenges between both countries, as economic frustrations and anti-immigrant sentiment continue to fuel periodic tensions in South Africa.
The Federal Government reiterated that the safety of Nigerians abroad remains a top priority and assured citizens that all necessary measures were being taken to support affected persons.
South Africa has in recent years witnessed repeated outbreaks of xenophobic violence, with migrants from several African countries, including Nigeria, often among those affected.
