Jul 15, 2026

305 Nigerians Evacuated from South Africa Amid Xenophobic Attacks

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

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LAGOS, Nigeria — In a continuing humanitarian effort, the Federal Government on Wednesday successfully evacuated another 305 Nigerians from South Africa, bringing them home aboard an Air Peace flight that touched down at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos at approximately 11:28 a.m. after a five-hour delay.

This marks the fifth batch of returnees in the ongoing evacuation programme triggered by renewed xenophobic attacks, threats, and growing insecurity faced by foreign nationals—particularly Nigerians—in parts of South Africa.

Many of the returnees expressed visible relief upon arrival, having fled an environment of fear and hostility.

Government officials, immigration authorities, and relevant agencies were on hand at the airport to receive the evacuees, providing immediate support with documentation, medical screening, and other arrival formalities.

The operation underscores Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad while maintaining diplomatic channels with South African authorities to address the root causes of these recurring incidents.

Xenophobic violence in South Africa has been a recurring nightmare for African migrants, especially Nigerians, for years.

Economic pressures, unemployment, and political rhetoric have often fueled attacks on foreigners perceived as competing for scarce resources.

This latest wave has forced hundreds to seek urgent repatriation, with many more reportedly still waiting at embassies and safe houses.

The Nigerian government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other agencies, has coordinated multiple Air Peace flights in recent weeks, successfully repatriating over a thousand citizens so far.

Officials have emphasized that these evacuations are voluntary, aimed at those who feel unsafe and wish to return home.

For many returnees, the journey home represents both relief and uncertainty. Families separated by distance, lost livelihoods, and traumatic experiences leave deep emotional scars.

Yet, stepping onto Nigerian soil brings a renewed sense of safety—even as challenges of reintegration await in a tough economic climate at home.

This situation highlights broader continental issues: the need for stronger African solidarity, better protection of migrants, and addressing underlying socio-economic drivers of xenophobia.

Diplomatic engagements between Nigeria and South Africa continue, with calls for sustained dialogue to prevent future crises and ensure the safety of all African nationals.

The Federal Government has reiterated its dedication to the welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora while urging calm and vigilance.

As more citizens return, support systems for reintegration — including skills training, job placement, and psychosocial care — will be crucial.

In an increasingly interconnected Africa, stories like these remind us that no nation is an island.

Protecting citizens abroad while fostering mutual respect and economic cooperation across borders remains an urgent priority for regional stability and human dignity.