The Federal Government has completed another large-scale evacuation of Nigerians from South Africa, bringing the total number of citizens brought home to 1,490.
The latest rescue operation came as many Nigerians living in South Africa continued to express fears over their safety. Consequently, the government moved quickly to complete the fifth phase of its humanitarian evacuation programme, reinforcing its commitment to protecting citizens abroad.
The evacuation gained attention after 305 Nigerians safely arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos aboard an Air Peace flight.
Moreover, the successful operation highlighted ongoing diplomatic efforts between both countries to address the security challenges affecting foreign nationals.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the evacuation flight departed from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg before landing in Lagos at approximately 11:30 a.m.
The aircraft also transported three Nigerian government officials who coordinated and supervised the latest evacuation exercise.
In a statement signed by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the government said the completion of the fifth phase reflects its determination to protect Nigerians wherever they may be.
Furthermore, the ministry explained that the evacuation programme forms part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places strong emphasis on the welfare of Nigerians both at home and abroad.
The ministry also revealed that the humanitarian programme has been carried out through a partnership involving Air Peace Limited and South African Airways.
Since June, several evacuation flights have been organised to return stranded Nigerians safely home.
The first Air Peace flight returned 258 Nigerians on June 10. Meanwhile, South African Airways evacuated another 66 citizens on June 24.
In addition, Air Peace conducted further evacuation flights on June 30, July 2 and July 9, bringing back hundreds more Nigerians before Wednesday’s latest operation.
South African Airways also returned another 39 Nigerians on July 11 before the latest evacuation concluded with 305 additional returnees.
According to the ministry, the operation became necessary after continued diplomatic discussions between Nigeria and South Africa over rising security concerns connected to xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals.
The government stated that the exercise was jointly coordinated by several agencies to ensure smooth operations from departure to arrival.
These agencies included the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Port Health Services and other relevant government institutions.
Moreover, officials ensured that every stage of the evacuation process was properly managed, beginning with registration and ending with the reception of returnees in Nigeria.
The Federal Government also praised Air Peace for its continued support throughout the evacuation programme.
Officials described the airline’s participation as an important demonstration of patriotism and commitment to national service.
Meanwhile, authorities reaffirmed that Nigeria remains committed to providing consular assistance and protection to citizens facing emergencies outside the country.
The government also restated its commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic relations with South Africa despite recent security concerns.
However, it strongly condemned all forms of xenophobia, racial discrimination and violence against foreign nationals.
Furthermore, officials said Nigeria will continue engaging the South African Government through diplomatic channels to promote peaceful coexistence and improve the safety of all residents.
