FG approves five evacuation flights for Nigerians in South Africa

By Favour Ulebor, Abuja

ABUJA — The Federal Government has authorised five evacuation flights to repatriate Nigerians who have expressed a desire to return from South Africa amid renewed xenophobic tensions in the country.

Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced the decision during a press briefing on Sunday.

He said the evacuation operation is part of ongoing efforts to assist Nigerians who wish to return home while concerns in South Africa continue to rise.

According to Ebienfa, the screening of registered Nigerians has been extended until Wednesday, 10 June 2026, to allow more applicants to complete the verification process.

He added that over 500 Nigerians have so far been screened and cleared for evacuation.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the five flights, which will be operated by Air Peace.

The first flight is expected to depart Johannesburg on Monday evening and will transport approximately 270 passengers, subject to final permits and clearances.

“The screening exercise of Nigerian nationals that have indicated interest to be evacuated back home has been extended to Wednesday 10th June, 2026,” he said. “So far, over 500 persons have been screened and cleared. Mr. President has approved five evacuation flights that will be operated by Air Peace and the first flight which will airlift about 270 passengers is expected to leave Johannesburg on Monday evening if the necessary permits and clearance are secured.”

Details of departure and arrival times will be communicated once final approvals are received from the Nigerian mission in South Africa.

The ministry had earlier announced that the screening exercise would end on Saturday but extended the timeline due to the number of applicants requiring verification.

Officials said the exercise is ongoing as more Nigerians continue to register for voluntary repatriation.

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