FG Reschedules Nigerians’ Evacuation From South Africa

The first batch of the airlift, which was initially slated for Monday, will now take place on Wednesday, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The spokesperson for the ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed the development in a statement, explaining that the adjustment was necessitated by unforeseen logistical challenges.

He noted that President Bola Tinubu has approved a total of five evacuation flights to be operated by Nigerian carrier Air Peace to facilitate the safe return of affected citizens.

Ebienfa stated that the first flight is expected to transport about 270 passengers from Johannesburg after the completion of required permits and security clearances.

He further disclosed that the screening exercise for Nigerians who expressed interest in returning home had been extended to Wednesday, adding that over 500 individuals have already been screened and cleared.

According to the ministry, the initial evacuation flight is now scheduled to depart Johannesburg on Wednesday evening, with assurances that all necessary arrangements are being finalized to ensure the safe return of all approved evacuees.