FG Moves To Evacuate 83 Nigerians From South Africa Amid Fresh Attacks

The Federal Government has announced plans to evacuate another 83 Nigerians from South Africa amid concerns over reported Afrophobic attacks and the safety of Nigerians living in the country.

According to Ireporter Online, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed the development in a statement issued on Monday by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.

The ministry said the returnees are expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.

The Nigerians are scheduled to depart Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg at about 3:35 p.m. local time aboard South African Airways and are expected to arrive in Lagos around 8:45 p.m.

The Federal Government explained that the latest evacuation was made possible through the intervention of private individuals who sponsored the flight tickets of the returnees.

The ministry expressed appreciation to the sponsors for their generosity and support towards Nigerians seeking to return home amid concerns over the situation in South Africa.

The latest evacuation follows the conclusion of the government’s earlier voluntary repatriation programme, which facilitated the return of nearly 1,490 Nigerians from South Africa.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights, welfare and dignity of Nigerians both within the country and abroad.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry said its Citizen Diplomacy policy recognises Nigerians in the diaspora as important contributors to national development rather than a burden.

It further stated that the government would continue to strengthen measures aimed at safeguarding Nigerians living outside the country.

The ministry also commended private individuals and philanthropists who have supported the evacuation efforts, describing their contributions as an example of a broader whole-of-society approach to addressing consular emergencies.

The Federal Government subsequently appealed to corporate organisations, the organised private sector, state governments and other well-meaning Nigerians to support efforts to assist citizens facing emergencies abroad.

Meanwhile, the government said diplomatic discussions with South African authorities would continue in a bid to address the underlying causes of Afrophobia and prevent further attacks and discrimination against Nigerians.

The ministry stressed that Nigeria would continue engaging host countries to ensure that violence against its citizens is prevented, condemned and appropriately addressed, including efforts to hold perpetrators accountable.