FG Evacuates 105 More Nigerians From South Africa
The Federal Government has evacuated another batch of 105 distressed Nigerians from South Africa following renewed anti-foreigner protests and concerns over the safety of Nigerians living in the country.
According to a statement by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, the returnees—comprising 82 adults and 23 children—arrived in Lagos on a South African Airways flight on Thursday night.
The returnees were received by officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant government agencies.
The Ministry explained that the evacuation was partly financed through a 265,854 US dollars donation by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) for the repatriation of 500 distressed Nigerians. Of those evacuated in the latest batch, 100 were funded through the RCCG donation, while the remaining five were sponsored by a private Nigerian citizen.
The latest exercise marks the 13th evacuation since June 10, 2026, bringing the total number of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa during the period to 1,821. Of this figure, 1,388 returnees have been fully funded by the Federal Government.
The Ministry further disclosed that other distressed Nigerians are currently undergoing clearance procedures with the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg. They are expected to be evacuated once the necessary documentation and clearance processes are completed.
The Federal Government expressed continued concern over the persistence of anti-foreigner protests in South Africa, particularly their potential implications for the safety, security and dignity of Nigerians residing in the country.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to using diplomatic engagement and cooperation with South African authorities to address concerns affecting Nigerians and protect their welfare.
The government commended the RCCG, under the leadership of Pastor Enoch Adeboye, as well as other individuals and organisations that have provided financial and logistical support for the evacuation programme.
The latest evacuation highlights the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to assist Nigerians facing difficult circumstances abroad while working through diplomatic channels to address the underlying challenges affecting Nigerians in South Africa.