Another 83 Nigerians Evacuated From South Africa Amid Xenophobic Attacks Arrive In Lagos
A group of 83 Nigerians has been evacuated from South Africa to Lagos amid ongoing xenophobic violence. This marks the first time a commercial flight has been used for the government's voluntary repatriation program, which has now assisted over 1,500 citizens.
Why it matters
The repatriation effort underscores the diplomatic strain between Nigeria and South Africa caused by recurring anti-foreigner sentiment and violence.
The returnees, comprising 58 adults and 25 children, arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, aboard South African Airways flight SA060.
Another batch of 83 Nigerians repatriated from South Africa amid continued xenophobic attacks and anti-foreigner violence has arrived in Lagos.
They are currently undergoing biometric clearance under the supervision of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
The latest exercise marks the first time the Nigerian government's voluntary repatriation programme from South Africa is being carried out through a commercial flight, following seven previous batches transported to Nigeria on chartered aircraft.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, had on Wednesday announced that the 83 Nigerians would be evacuated from South Africa on August 19, 2026.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the latest repatriation was made possible through the intervention of a group of public-spirited private individuals and business associates who jointly sponsored the returnees' air tickets.
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