The Federal Government has successfully evacuated another 271 Nigerian citizens from South Africa as it continues its voluntary repatriation programme for nationals affected by the ongoing anti-immigrant protests in the country.
The latest batch of returnees arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos on Friday morning aboard an Air Peace flight coordinated by the Federal Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to government officials, the aircraft departed Johannesburg shortly after midnight on Thursday and landed in Lagos at approximately 5:30 a.m., marking another phase of the ongoing evacuation exercise.
The latest operation follows a series of evacuation flights launched in response to growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians residing in South Africa following anti-immigrant demonstrations that have spread across parts of the country.
The protests were reportedly driven by calls from some South African groups demanding the removal of undocumented foreign nationals, accusing illegal immigrants of taking jobs meant for citizens and contributing to criminal activities.
As tensions escalated, many Nigerians indicated their willingness to return home, prompting the Federal Government to intensify efforts to facilitate their safe and voluntary repatriation.
With the arrival of the 271 returnees, the total number of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa has now risen to 874 since the exercise began.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Nigerians living abroad, stating that it will continue to provide necessary support during emergencies while sustaining diplomatic engagement with South African authorities to ensure the safety and protection of Nigerian citizens.
Officials also noted that the voluntary return programme remains ongoing, with additional eligible Nigerians expected to return home as the government continues to coordinate the evacuation process.
