The Nigerian government has begun the repatriation of Nigerians fleeing renewed xenophobic violence in South Africa, with the first batch of 268 returnees arriving in Lagos on Thursday.
According to an official update monitored by SaharaReporters through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) WhatsApp platform, the evacuees touched down at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja at about 10:30 a.m. aboard an Air Peace evacuation flight arranged by the Federal Government.
FG response to anti-immigrant violence in South Africa
The evacuation forms part of Nigeria’s response to the latest wave of anti-immigrant violence that has swept through parts of South Africa, forcing thousands of African migrants to flee for safety.
SaharaReporters reports that the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs earlier disclosed that more than 1,000 Nigerians registered for voluntary repatriation following rising fears of attacks targeting foreign nationals.
Screening by Nigerian and South African authorities
Before the flights commenced, the government said joint screening exercises were conducted by Nigerian and South African authorities to ensure eligible returnees were processed for evacuation.
More flights expected as Nigerians await return
SaharaReporters previously reported that the Nigerian government approved multiple evacuation flights as tensions escalated in South Africa.
It is expected that the evacuation will continue over the coming days as hundreds of other Nigerians who registered for voluntary return await transportation back to Nigeria.
Wider African diplomatic concerns
The xenophobic crisis has triggered diplomatic concerns across Africa. Reports indicate that migrants from several countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Malawi, and Mozambique, have faced harassment, attacks, and displacement.
South African authorities have condemned the violence, while President Cyril Ramaphosa pledged action against groups believed to be behind the attacks.
Rights groups warn against scapegoating migrants
Anti-immigrant sentiment in South Africa has been fueled by claims that foreign nationals are responsible for rising crime, unemployment, and pressure on public services. However, rights groups and migration experts have repeatedly warned that scapegoating migrants distracts from broader economic and governance challenges.
With the first batch now in Nigeria, officials are expected to proceed with additional repatriation flights for Nigerians who registered for voluntary return.
