Repatriation Begins: First Batch Of Nigerians From South Africa Arrives Next Week

The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, disclosed this during an interview in Abuja on Saturday, noting that the process is being jointly coordinated by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs.

She explained that the screening exercise, which entered its third day on Saturday, has recorded a significant turnout, with large numbers of Nigerians presenting themselves to complete documentation for voluntary return.

Dabiri-Erewa described the participation as impressive, stating that the exercise commenced early and has continued in an orderly manner under diplomatic supervision.

Despite recent tensions and concerns linked to anti-immigrant protests in parts of South Africa, she said the evacuation process has remained peaceful and well-coordinated under the leadership of Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner in Pretoria, Amb. Olatunde Ajayi.

She further revealed that over 1,000 Nigerians have already registered for voluntary evacuation, with additional registrations still ongoing.

According to her, flight arrangements for the evacuation have been approved by President Bola Tinubu, with Air Peace designated to operate the scheduled flights. She added that five flights have been planned, with the first batch of returnees expected to arrive in Nigeria next week.