A fresh wave of Nigerians affected by xenophobic violence in South Africa has been evacuated and safely returned to Lagos in a government-coordinated airlift aimed at protecting citizens caught in the unrest.
The 258 returnees arrived this morning at Murtala Muhammed International Airport aboard a special Air Peace flight, escorted by officials of the Nigerian Mission in Pretoria led by Acting High Commissioner, Ambassador Temitope Alexander Ajayi.
Receiving them on behalf of the Federal Government, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, said the evacuation reflects President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to safeguarding Nigerians abroad, stressing that the country would not remain passive while its citizens face attacks or harassment anywhere in the world.
He noted that the operation underscores Nigeria’s citizen-centred foreign policy and assured that diplomatic engagements are ongoing with South African authorities at the highest level to address the root causes of the violence and strengthen protection for Nigerian nationals.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the evacuation was carried out in collaboration with multiple government agencies, including aviation, humanitarian, health, immigration and security services, describing the mission as a coordinated national response to an urgent humanitarian situation.
On arrival, the returnees were subjected to documentation, profiling and medical checks, while arrangements were made for temporary accommodation and further welfare support before their reintegration with families.
Authorities say additional evacuation flights remain under consideration as efforts continue to bring home more Nigerians willing to return amid the ongoing tensions in South Africa.
Reporting By Nosa Aituamen