The Federal Government has successfully evacuated another 39 Nigerians from South Africa as efforts continue to bring home citizens affected by the recent xenophobic attacks.
The returnees departed Johannesburg aboard an Air Peace flight on Friday and are expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, later in the evening.
Moreover, officials confirmed that another larger evacuation flight has already been scheduled for next week.
The latest development comes as the government intensifies its emergency response to the attacks against foreign nationals in parts of South Africa. Consequently, more Nigerians are expected to return home safely as the evacuation exercise moves closer to completion.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the additional flight was arranged for Nigerians who could not board Thursday’s evacuation despite completing all required travel documents within the approved deadline.
The Ministry explained that the extra airlift was necessary to avoid delays in the ongoing repatriation programme.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the special flight ensured that those left behind were given another opportunity to return home without unnecessary disruption.
Furthermore, the government noted that the arrangement prevented any spillover that could have affected the already planned evacuation schedule.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government praised Air Peace for supporting the emergency operation by providing another aircraft for the rescue mission.
Officials described the airline’s cooperation as an important contribution to the success of the evacuation programme.
In addition, authorities disclosed that a final evacuation flight is expected to arrive in Nigeria next week.
The flight is projected to bring home about 300 more Nigerians who have indicated their willingness to return from South Africa.
Therefore, the emergency exercise is gradually reaching its final stage after several coordinated evacuation flights.
The Federal Government also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians living abroad during periods of crisis.
Officials stressed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to the welfare, safety and peaceful return of all affected citizens.
Since the attacks began, Nigerian authorities have worked closely with relevant agencies and partners to organise safe transportation for citizens wishing to return home.
Moreover, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has continued to monitor the situation while providing support to affected Nigerians.
Although many citizens have already been evacuated, government officials said efforts will continue until every willing Nigerian has been safely repatriated.
The latest operation also highlights the growing collaboration between the Federal Government and private sector partners during emergency situations.
As the final evacuation flight approaches, families across Nigeria are expected to welcome more returning citizens in the coming days.
