258 Nigerians Evacuated by the Federal Government from South Africa to Lagos amid Xenophobia

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The first group of 258 Nigerians returning from South Africa after a surge of xenophobic attacks landed in Lagos on Thursday, following an evacuation organized by the Nigerian government.

The evacuees arrived at Murtala Muhammed International Airport aboard a special Air Peace flight that touched down at about 10:25 a.m.

On behalf of President Bola Tinubu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye welcomed the returnees, describing the operation as a clear sign of the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and welfare of Nigerians wherever they live.

The returnees were escorted by officials of the Nigerian Mission in South Africa, led by Acting High Commissioner Ambassador Temitope Ajayi, who had coordinated their safe departure.

Enikanolaiye relayed President Tinubu’s message of solidarity, assuring the evacuees that the Federal Government would continue to prioritize their safety, dignity and well‑being abroad.

He stressed that the decision to evacuate was a necessary response to the threats posed by the recent attacks, emphasizing that no citizen should be forced to live in fear because of their nationality.

According to the minister, the operation reflects Nigeria’s citizen‑focused foreign policy and should not be seen as a retreat in the face of adversity. He added that additional evacuation flights are expected in the coming days as authorities assist more Nigerians wishing to return home.

The evacuation was coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in partnership with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and several government agencies, including the Ministries of Humanitarian Affairs, Aviation and Health, as well as the Nigeria Immigration Service and security agencies.

Enikanolaiye praised the officials of the Nigerian Mission in South Africa for their role in facilitating the operation and urged Nigerians still in the country to remain vigilant, obey local laws and report security concerns promptly to the mission.

He also noted that the Nigerian government remains actively engaged with South African authorities through diplomatic channels to protect Nigerians and address the factors driving the attacks.

The returnees are currently undergoing documentation, profiling and medical screening. Government officials said temporary accommodation and other support services will be provided before they are reunited with their families.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigerians worldwide and appealed for calm as diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation continue.