Xenophobia: Nigerian govt to evacuate 83 more Nigerians from South Africa Wednesday
The Federal Government announced that a group of 83 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa is scheduled to return home on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. This repatriation follows increasing concerns over Afrophobic attacks and rising anti-foreigner sentiments in South Africa.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed the information in a statement released on Monday by spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa. According to the ministry, the returnees will depart from Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg at approximately 3:35 p.m. local time, aboard a South African Airways flight, and are expected to arrive at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at around 8:45 p.m. the same day.
The ministry noted that this latest evacuation was made possible through the financial support of private individuals who sponsored the returnees’ air tickets. “The Ministry wishes to acknowledge the kind intervention and sponsorship of tickets by public-spirited private individuals, whose generosity the Federal Government appreciates with profound gratitude,” the statement said.
This repatriation follows the Federal Government’s voluntary evacuation program, which helped nearly 1,490 Nigerians return from South Africa amid concerns about discrimination and hostility toward foreign nationals.
The administration of President Bola Tinubu emphasized its commitment to the safety and well-being of Nigerians domestically and abroad. The ministry stated that its Citizen Diplomacy policy views Nigerians living overseas as critical assets for national development and underscores the importance of their safety.
Additionally, the ministry commended the private individuals and philanthropists who assisted with this most recent evacuation. Their contribution exemplifies the “whole-of-society approach” the government advocates, aimed at addressing the needs of citizens in distress.
The government called on the organized private sector, corporate entities, state governments, and individuals both domestically and internationally to collaborate in supporting citizens facing emergencies abroad. The ministry indicated that broader cooperation would enhance Nigeria’s capacity to respond effectively to consular crises.
Furthermore, Nigeria plans to maintain diplomatic engagement with South Africa to tackle the root causes of Afrophobia and prevent future attacks on Nigerians and other Africans. The ministry reiterated its commitment to developing strategic partnerships with host nations, including South Africa, to combat violence and discrimination against Nigerian nationals.
The ministry expressed gratitude to the private sponsors involved in the recent evacuation and encouraged additional support for initiatives aimed at safeguarding Nigerians living and working abroad.
