First batch of repatriated Nigerians arrive in Lagos from South Africa
The first group of Nigerians repatriated from South Africa following a recent wave of xenophobic violence has arrived in Lagos.
A total of 268 returnees landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Thursday morning aboard an Air Peace flight, marking the beginning of the federal government’s evacuation efforts.
The flight, originally scheduled to depart on Monday, was delayed due to documentation issues and eventually took off on Wednesday.
Reports indicate that more than 1,000 Nigerians have signified their willingness to return home as concerns over safety continue to mount in South Africa.
Earlier this week, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the number of Nigerians seeking repatriation was rising. She noted that Nigeria’s High Commission in Pretoria had secured waivers from South African authorities to allow individuals with immigration-related offences to leave the country through the evacuation programme instead of facing detention.
The screening process for Nigerians interested in returning began last Thursday and was initially expected to end on Saturday. However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Wednesday that the exercise had been extended until Sunday to enable more citizens to participate.
According to the ministry, the extension reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding Nigerians abroad, describing the protection of citizens overseas as a key component of Nigeria’s foreign policy.
The ministry also stated that the federal government, working through relevant ministries, departments and agencies, has established arrangements for the reception, documentation and support of the returnees upon their arrival in Nigeria.
