Federal Government Brings Back Another Group of Nigerians from South Africa

Chinedu Eze

The federal government has repatriated another group of Nigerians from South Africa.

Sixty‑six returnees arrived at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos at approximately 8:50 pm yesterday.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry stated that the evacuation was authorized by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reflecting the government’s commitment to the safety and welfare of Nigerian citizens abroad.

The first batch of 262 returnees arrived on Thursday, 11 June 2026, on a chartered Air Peace flight.

The second group of 66 was facilitated by Otunba Kunle Soname, Chairman/CEO of Value Jet.

Officials from the Nigerian Embassy/High Commission in South Africa accompanied the returnees.

Upon arrival, the returnees thanked President Tinubu for his prompt approval and intervention, and Otunba Soname for his humanitarian support.

Ambassador and acting High Commissioner to South Africa, Temitope Ajayi, along with Dr. Abike Dabiri‑Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), and her staff were on the ground to receive the returnees and provide immediate assistance.

Speaking on behalf of NiDCOM Chairman/CEO Mr. Dipo Onabowale, the delegation praised President Tinubu for his citizen‑centred leadership in ensuring the safe return of the evacuees.

He noted that logistical challenges encountered after the first evacuation are being addressed proactively by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu‑Ojukwu, who has assured that all registered Nigerians will be evacuated.

THISDAY reports that returnees, particularly those from Imo State, received N1,000,000 each from Governor Hope Uzodinma.

Additional support included free SIM packs with data worth N50,000 from MTN Nigeria, and N100,000 credited to each returnee’s bank account.

Pastor Bolaji Idowu of Harvesters International Christian Centre also donated N100,000 to each returnee.

Government agencies present at the airport—National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), National Commission for Refugees, Migration and Internally Displaced Persons, Nigeria Immigration Service, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and security agencies—documented, received, and provided necessary assistance to the returnees.

The returnees expressed deep appreciation for the donations, warm reception, and comprehensive support, describing it as evidence of the federal government’s commitment to Nigerians wherever they may be.

NiDCOM reiterates that no Nigerian willing to return home will be left behind and continues to work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure smooth evacuation and reintegration processes.