A fresh group of Nigerians fleeing anti-migrant unrest in South Africa landed safely at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos this Friday. This mission marks the latest phase of the Federal Government’s initiative to secure the return of its citizens living in the country.
Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu confirmed that an Air Peace charter flight transported 268 returnees, plus flight staff, from Johannesburg to Lagos. The government-funded flight left Oliver Tambo International Airport early in the morning.
Via social media, Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated that President Bola Tinubu ordered the continuation of these evacuation efforts beyond the June 30 cutoff date set by local anti-migrant factions. Previously, nearly 600 Nigerians had already returned via three separate flights. The government continues to coordinate the return of all citizens who have successfully completed the registration and screening process.
The Minister emphasized that safeguarding the lives of Nigerians abroad is a core objective of the administration. This effort follows a rise in xenophobic demonstrations across South Africa, where protesters blame immigrants for economic strain and job scarcity. This unrest has led to at least four deaths, prompting several nations, including Nigeria, to organize emergency repatriation flights. Additionally, the Nigerian government plans to pursue discussions regarding compensation for the property and businesses left behind by returning citizens.
