Breaking News: 269 More Nigerians Return from South Africa as Federal Government Intensifies Evacuation Efforts
The Federal Government has successfully evacuated an additional 269 Nigerians from South Africa, increasing the total number of citizens brought home in the past week to 335. The move is part of ongoing efforts to assist Nigerians who have opted for voluntary return ahead of South Africa’s June 30 deadline for undocumented foreign nationals.
The latest group arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Tuesday morning aboard an Air Peace evacuation flight from Johannesburg. The operation highlights Air Peace’s continued support in partnering with the Federal Government to facilitate the safe and orderly return of Nigerian citizens.
This follows the earlier arrival of 66 Nigerians on June 24 via a South African Airways flight arranged through the support of a Nigerian philanthropist.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, officials from the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa accompanied the returnees throughout the journey to ensure a smooth and well-coordinated evacuation process.
Upon arrival in Lagos, the evacuees were welcomed by senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Haruna Ali-Gombe, Director of the African Affairs Department.
Speaking during the reception, Ali-Gombe reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare and security of Nigerians both at home and abroad. He assured the returnees that the government remains dedicated to supporting citizens who voluntarily choose to return to Nigeria.
The evacuation exercise forms part of the government’s response to South Africa’s immigration compliance measures, with more evacuation flights expected as additional eligible Nigerians complete the required screening process.
The Ministry also stated that it continues to engage South African authorities through diplomatic channels to protect the interests and rights of Nigerians who remain in the country.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Federal Government emphasized that the welfare of Nigerians abroad remains a priority under the administration of President Bola Tinubu, assuring that all eligible citizens willing to return home will continue to receive the necessary assistance through the ongoing evacuation programme
