The Nigerian government has concluded its efforts to bring home citizens impacted by xenophobic violence in South Africa. A final flight organized by the state arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Wednesday, carrying 308 individuals.
Along with the returnees, three Nigerian officials who assisted in managing the logistics returned on the flight. Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu confirmed that this arrival brings the total count of evacuated Nigerians to over 1,500.
The minister expressed appreciation for President Bola Tinubu, whose authorization of the emergency airlift provided a critical escape for those endangered by the ongoing unrest. She highlighted that the president’s quick response was essential in preventing potential casualties.
Furthermore, the minister commended the dedication of Nigerian diplomats in South Africa and the cooperation of Air Peace in executing the repatriation mission.