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Civil Servants: 5 Retirement Benefits Of Nigerian Civil Servants

Enyosa Favour
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Civil Servants: 5 Retirement Benefits Of Nigerian Civil Servants

The Federal Government has directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to immediately stop the practice of placing civil servants on a compulsory three-month pre-retirement leave, clarifying that no such provision exists in the Public Service Rules (PSR).

The directive was contained in a circular dated May 13, 2026, and signed by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack.

The circular was addressed to ministers, permanent secretaries, heads of government agencies, service chiefs, and other senior public sector officials.

According to the Head of Service, several MDAs have been incorrectly interpreting Public Service Rule 120243 by treating the mandatory three-month notice period before retirement as a leave period, resulting in officers being asked to stop performing their duties ahead of their official retirement dates.

The Office of the Head of Civil Service stated:
“It has come to the attention of this Office that some Ministries, Extra-Ministerial Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have continued to treat the three-month notice period preceding retirement as a mandatory leave period, contrary to the provisions of the extant Public Service Rules (PSR).”

Under Public Service Rule 120243, officers are required to notify the service three months before their retirement date.

“Officers are required to give three months’ notice to retire from Service before the effective date of retirement.

“At the commencement of three months, Officers should proceed immediately on the mandatory one-month pre-retirement workshop/seminar. For the remaining two months, retiring Officers are expected to take necessary measures to put their records straight to facilitate the speedy processing of their retirement benefits,” it said.

The government explained that the rule outlines three separate obligations rather than a leave entitlement.

“A retiring officer must give three months’ notice before their effective date of retirement. This is a notice requirement, not a leave entitlement.
“During the first month of the notice period, officers must attend an approved MDA-mandated pre-retirement programme.

“During the remaining two months, officers are expected to regularise their service records, pension documentation, and other retirement-related matters to facilitate seamless processing of their benefits,” it added.

As a result, all MDAs have been instructed to:
“discontinue the practice of treating the three-month notice period as compulsory leave and compelling officers to vacate duty based on a non-existent provision, ensure that a retiring officer continues to discharge official responsibilities throughout the notice period, except as otherwise approved, facilitate the timely participation of retiring officers in approved pre-retirement seminars and workshops under MDA-approved programmes and ensure prompt processing and reconciliation of all retirement records, pension documentation, and other entitlements within the stipulated period.”

The circular further directed permanent secretaries, directors-general, executive secretaries, chairpersons of statutory agencies, and chief executive officers of government institutions to ensure strict compliance with the directive and communicate it to all staff across the public service.

Key Retirement Benefits Available To Nigerian Federal Civil Servants

Beyond the recent clarification on retirement procedures, federal civil servants are entitled to a number of retirement benefits under Nigeria’s pension framework.

  1. Monthly Pension Payments

    Federal civil servants under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) receive retirement benefits through their Retirement Savings Accounts (RSA), which are funded by contributions from both the employee and the Federal Government during their years of service. These funds provide periodic pension payments after retirement.
  2. Retirement Savings Account (RSA) Benefits

    Upon retirement, eligible civil servants can access their accumulated pension contributions through programmed withdrawals or by purchasing an annuity, depending on the option selected under the Pension Reform Act.
  3. Newly Approved Federal Government Gratuity Scheme

    A major development in 2026 is the approval of a new Exit Benefit Scheme for federal civil servants.
    The Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved a policy granting retiring federal civil servants a gratuity equivalent to 100 per cent of their total annual emolument. The scheme took effect from January 1, 2026, and applies to eligible officers who have served for at least 10 years.
  4. One-Time Lump Sum Retirement Benefit

    Under the newly approved scheme, retirees receive a substantial lump-sum gratuity in addition to their regular pension benefits, providing greater financial security during retirement. The gratuity does not replace existing pension benefits but complements them.
  5. Death and Survivor Benefits

    In cases where a retiree passes away, designated beneficiaries or next of kin may access benefits in line with pension regulations and the provisions of the Retirement Savings Account framework.

Mozambique Says 5 Citizens Killed In ‘Xenophobic Attack’ In South Africa

Tosin Onisuuru
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Mozambique Says 5 Citizens Killed In ‘Xenophobic Attack’ In South Africa

The Mozambican government has condemned what it described as a xenophobic attack in South Africa that reportedly left five Mozambican citizens dead, adding to growing concerns over a recent wave of anti-immigrant violence targeting foreign nationals in Africa’s most industrialized economy.

Mozambican authorities said they were seeking detailed information from South African officials regarding the circumstances surrounding the deaths and called for a thorough investigation into the incident. The reported killings come amid heightened tensions over immigration in South Africa, where protests and vigilante actions against foreign nationals have intensified in recent months.

The South African government has repeatedly condemned violence against migrants and pledged to prosecute those responsible for attacks on foreign nationals. However, several African governments have expressed concern about the safety of their citizens living in the country.

Earlier this year, countries including Kenya, Malawi, Lesotho, Zimbabwe and Ghana issued warnings advising their citizens in South Africa to remain vigilant following a rise in attacks linked to anti-immigration protests. Mozambique’s President, Daniel Chapo, also held discussions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and called for calm as tensions escalated.

The unrest has been fueled by public frustration over unemployment, crime and economic hardship, with some South Africans blaming undocumented migrants for increasing pressure on jobs and public services. Migrant-rights organizations argue that foreigners are being unfairly scapegoated for broader economic challenges facing the country.

Groups such as Operation Dudula, which campaigns against illegal immigration, have been accused by critics of contributing to a hostile environment for migrants, though the organization has denied supporting violence. South African authorities have stressed that while citizens have the right to protest, attacks and intimidation against foreign nationals are unacceptable and will be prosecuted.

Recent incidents have prompted diplomatic interventions from several African governments. Nigeria has begun assisting citizens who wish to return home, while Ghana has sought action through regional and continental institutions following reports of attacks on its nationals.

South Africa has experienced periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence over the past two decades, with major incidents recorded in 2008, 2015 and 2019. Human rights groups have warned that the latest tensions risk triggering another cycle of attacks unless authorities act swiftly to protect vulnerable communities and address the underlying causes of anti-immigrant sentiment.

Mozambique said it expects South African authorities to ensure justice for the victims and guarantee the safety of foreign nationals residing in the country. As investigations continue, regional leaders are closely monitoring the situation amid fears that further violence could strain relations between neighboring states and undermine efforts to promote regional integration and cooperation.

NLC Rejects Proposed N100,000 Minimum Wage, Says Workers Need More To Cope With Economic Hardship

Enyosa Favour
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NLC Rejects Proposed N100,000 Minimum Wage, Says Workers Need More To Cope With Economic Hardship

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has rejected the proposed N100,000 national minimum wage being considered by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), arguing that the amount falls short of what Nigerian workers need to survive under current economic conditions.

The position was made known by the NLC spokesperson, Benson Upah, during an interview with The PUNCH on Sunday.

His comments followed remarks by the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who revealed that state governors were considering a new minimum wage benchmark of N100,000.

Speaking during the Sallah homage to President Bola Tinubu in Lagos, AbdulRazaq said governors were already engaging with the Federal Government and organised labour to develop a wage structure that balances workers’ welfare with fiscal sustainability.

In a Facebook post on Saturday, the governor explained that the proposal was influenced by rising inflation, increasing living expenses, and the growing financial pressure on Nigerian workers.

Responding to the proposal, Upah acknowledged the governors’ efforts but maintained that the suggested amount was inadequate when measured against current economic realities.

“We consider it thoughtful of the Kwara State Governor for proposing this, but certainly, N100,000 falls far below or behind the realistic figure,” he said.

The labour leader pointed to several economic challenges, including the depreciation of the naira, persistent inflation, higher electricity tariffs, rising petrol prices, reduced purchasing power, and the impact of recent tax measures, as reasons workers require a significantly higher wage.

“Given the realities around the exchange rate, inflation, raised tariffs, surge in the pump price of petrol and associated costs, decline in the purchasing power of the average worker, effects of the new regime of taxes on our cost of living, the realistic figure, subject to status quo maintenance, would be N1m,” he stated.

Upah further argued that increased government revenue should make improved worker compensation achievable.

“In light of the earnings by governments, this should not be a big issue.

“Check what is being shared at FAAC. The windfall from the Middle East war has put over N5tn in the treasury. Though this is temporary, it is nonetheless very good for governments,” he added.

The NLC spokesman also stressed the importance of investing in the nation’s workforce, describing workers as the backbone of economic growth and national development.

“Finally, please note that the greatest asset of any nation is its workforce,” he said.

The debate over minimum wage has intensified amid worsening economic conditions following the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira by the Federal Government.

In July 2024, the Federal Government approved a new national minimum wage of N70,000 after extensive negotiations with organised labour.

Before the agreement was reached, labour unions had pushed for a much higher wage, arguing that inflation had significantly eroded workers’ earnings and purchasing power.

Although the government initially proposed lower figures, negotiations eventually led to the adoption of the N70,000 minimum wage, replacing the previous N30,000 benchmark introduced in 2019.

However, labour leaders have continued to insist that the current wage structure is insufficient due to persistent inflation and the rising cost of living.

Recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has continued to indicate elevated food and headline inflation rates, leaving many workers struggling to meet basic household needs despite the wage increase.

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has yet to formally submit a proposal on a revised minimum wage framework to either the Federal Government or organised labour.

NUT Stages Nationwide Protests Of Abducted Oyo Teachers And Pupils

Enyosa Favour
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NUT Stages Nationwide Protests Of Abducted Oyo Teachers And Pupils

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) on Tuesday intensified its campaign for the rescue of teachers and pupils abducted in Oyo State, organising protest rallies across several states of the federation.

The demonstrations came a day after civil society organisations held a peaceful protest in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, demanding urgent government intervention to secure the release of the victims, who remain in captivity.

Teachers across the country used the rallies to draw attention to growing security concerns within the education sector and to call for stronger measures to protect both educators and students.

Teachers Rally In Ibadan

The protest in Ibadan began at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Secretariat located in the American Quarter area of the city, where union leaders addressed members on the purpose of the demonstration.

Following the briefing, the teachers embarked on a peaceful march through major parts of the city, carrying placards and banners with messages calling for the safe return of the abducted teachers and pupils.

Participants also sang solidarity songs and used public address systems to engage residents, explaining the reasons behind the protest and the urgency of the situation.

Union leaders stressed that the rally was not intended to cause disruption or confrontation but was aimed at drawing national attention to the plight of the victims and urging authorities to act swiftly.

According to the union, the demonstration was an appeal to the conscience of the nation, the responsibility of government, and the constitutional obligation of security agencies to safeguard lives and property.

Plateau Teachers Demand Immediate Rescue

In Plateau State, members of the NUT joined the nationwide protest, calling for the immediate rescue of the abducted teachers and pupils.

Addressing protesters in Jos, Plateau State NUT Chairman, Elisha Ayimani, described the increasing incidence of school-related kidnappings as a serious threat to education and national development.

He urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts toward securing the release of the victims and restoring confidence in the safety of schools across the country.

Ayimani maintained that the union would continue its industrial action until the abducted teachers and pupils are safely reunited with their families.

The protesters marched from the Old Airport Roundabout to the New Government House in Little Rayfield, where they planned to present a formal letter to Governor Caleb Mutfwang.

NUT Insists On Safety Of Teachers And Students

The union reiterated that the safety of teachers and students must remain a top priority for government at all levels.

According to NUT leaders, the continued abduction of schoolchildren and education workers threatens teaching, learning, and overall confidence in the country’s education system.

The union said it would continue to press for stronger security measures and sustained efforts to secure the release of the abducted victims while advocating safer learning environments nationwide.

At Least 13 People Dead In Russian Attack On Cities Across Ukraine

Tosin Onisuuru
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At Least 13 People Dead In Russian Attack On Cities Across Ukraine

Russia launched one of its largest aerial assaults on Ukraine overnight, killing at least 13 people and injuring more than 100 others in coordinated drone and missile strikes that hit several major cities, Ukrainian authorities said on Tuesday. The attack came after days of warnings from Ukrainian officials that Moscow was preparing a major escalation.

According to Ukraine’s Air Force, Russia fired 656 drones and 73 missiles during the overnight barrage, targeting Kyiv, Dnipro, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia and other regions. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 602 drones and 40 missiles, but dozens of projectiles penetrated defenses and struck their targets.

The deadliest strike occurred in the eastern city of Dnipro, where nine people were killed, including a young child and an emergency responder. At least 36 others were wounded after missiles and drones slammed into residential neighborhoods and civilian infrastructure. Local authorities said rescue workers were still searching damaged buildings for survivors.

In the capital, Kyiv, four people were killed when a missile strike caused part of a 24-storey apartment building to collapse. More than 60 residents were injured, including children, while emergency crews worked through the night to rescue people trapped beneath the rubble. Large fires broke out in several districts, and thousands of residents sought shelter in metro stations as air-raid sirens sounded across the city.

Explosions were also reported in Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia, where residential buildings, public facilities and infrastructure sustained damage. Ukrainian officials described the attack as a deliberate attempt to overwhelm the country’s air-defense network through the simultaneous use of large numbers of drones and missiles.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said intelligence services had warned of a possible large-scale Russian strike days before the attack. Following the bombardment, he renewed calls on Western allies to provide additional air-defense systems, particularly Patriot missile batteries, warning that Ukraine remains vulnerable to ballistic and hypersonic missile attacks.

Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned the strikes and said they demonstrated that Moscow remained committed to military escalation despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to end the war. He argued that the scale of the attack showed Russia was seeking to increase pressure on Ukraine both militarily and psychologically.

Russia’s Defence Ministry said the strikes targeted military command centers, defense-industrial facilities and other military infrastructure. Moscow has repeatedly denied intentionally targeting civilians, although Ukrainian authorities reported significant damage to apartment blocks, schools and other civilian sites.

The assault follows weeks of intensified hostilities between the two countries. Ukraine has stepped up long-range drone attacks against Russian military and energy facilities, while Russia has responded with increasingly large missile and drone barrages against Ukrainian cities. Recent Ukrainian strikes have targeted oil refineries and energy infrastructure deep inside Russian territory, underscoring the widening scope of the conflict.

The latest attack has renewed concerns among Ukraine’s allies that the war is entering another period of intensified violence. With civilian casualties mounting and diplomatic efforts producing little progress, analysts warn that both sides appear to be preparing for a prolonged phase of confrontation rather than a negotiated settlement.

Why Is US Cutting Visa Processing Centres In Africa From Nearly 50 To 20

Enyosa Favour
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Why Is US Cutting Visa Processing Centres In Africa From Nearly 50 To 20

The United States government has announced plans to significantly reduce the number of embassies and consulates in Africa that process visa applications, a move that could reshape how Africans apply for US visas.

According to reports by the Associated Press (AP), nearly 50 US embassies and consulates across the continent currently handle visa applications. However, that number is expected to drop to just 20 designated processing hubs in the coming weeks.

The decision was communicated to US diplomats, including consular chiefs, during a conference call held last Friday. The directive was approved by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and is expected to take effect in June, although an official implementation date has not yet been announced.

Under the new arrangement, the 20 hubs that will continue processing all visa categories are located in Abidjan (Ivory Coast), Accra (Ghana), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Cape Town and Johannesburg (South Africa), Dakar (Senegal), Dar-es-Salaam (Tanzania), Djibouti, Kampala (Uganda), Kigali (Rwanda), Kinshasa (DR Congo), Lagos (Nigeria), Lome (Togo), Luanda (Angola), Malabo (Equatorial Guinea), Monrovia (Liberia), Nairobi (Kenya), Port Louis (Mauritius), Praia (Cape Verde), and Yaounde (Cameroon).

The move comes six months after the Donald Trump administration recalled ambassadors from more than two dozen countries, including Nigeria, with Africa emerging as the most affected region.

What Are The Reasons For The Reduction Of Visa Processing Centers In Africa

According to internal State Department documents and US officials familiar with the decision, the move is part of the Trump administration’s broader strategy to tighten immigration controls and strengthen visa screening procedures. Some African nationals, including Nigerians, already face the possibility of paying visa bonds of up to $15,000 for certain B1/B2 visa applications, while several African countries remain under partial US travel restrictions.

The planned changes are expected to have a significant impact on visa applicants, particularly those living in countries that will no longer process routine visa applications, as they may now be required to travel to another country to complete their applications.

The administration has repeatedly stated that it wants to reduce both immigrant and non-immigrant visa issuance while addressing concerns about visa overstays by travellers who enter the United States legally but remain beyond the duration of their visas.

US officials also indicated that the consolidation is intended to centralise visa operations in selected regional hubs, allowing resources, personnel, and security screening processes to be concentrated in fewer locations. The State Department said it continually reviews overseas operations to ensure taxpayer resources are deployed efficiently and in line with US national interests.

Another factor behind the decision is the administration’s ongoing effort to strengthen security vetting and background checks for visa applicants. The State Department said the visa process must maintain “rigorous standards of security screening and vetting” while aligning operational capacity with national priorities.

The move also follows broader reductions in staffing at US embassies and consulates worldwide, with the administration seeking to streamline diplomatic operations and reduce operational costs.

While visa services will be scaled back in many African countries, consular sections in non-hub locations are expected to remain open for limited services, including assistance for US citizens, passport renewals, emergency consular support, diplomatic visas, and special national interest cases.

Analysts say the policy could create longer travel distances, additional expenses, and increased waiting times for applicants from countries that lose full visa-processing capabilities. However, US officials maintain that the changes are aimed at improving efficiency, enhancing security oversight, and supporting the administration’s broader immigration objectives.

South Africa Faces World Cup Visa Setback As Minister Seeks Answers

Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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South Africa Faces World Cup Visa Setback As Minister Seeks Answers

South Africa’s preparations for the World Cup suffered a setback after visa issues delayed the national team’s departure to Mexico.

Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie expressed frustration over the situation, saying the country was being “made to look like fools” and calling on the South African Football Association (Safa) to explain how the problem occurred. He also insisted that those responsible should be held accountable.

Safa acknowledged that some players and officials experienced visa-related difficulties but did not provide specific details.

Government Steps In to Resolve Crisis

McKenzie later confirmed that all players had received permission to travel and would leave for Mexico on Monday. South African media described the incident as an administrative error that disrupted the team’s World Cup preparations.

The minister had earlier criticized the situation on social media, calling it unfair to both the players and coaching staff.

In response, Safa said it was working urgently to ensure the team travelled to Mexico City as quickly as possible ahead of the tournament.

Additional Visa Challenges Remain

Reports indicated that efforts were made to secure United States visas for members of the squad and staff. The documents are required because South Africa will play their second World Cup group match against the Czech Republic in Atlanta.

The Department of International Relations was also involved in efforts to resolve the issue.

While all players have now been cleared to travel, McKenzie said visas were still pending for several members of the support staff, including an assistant coach, the team doctor, the head of security and an analyst.

Focus Turns to World Cup Campaign

South Africa, one of 10 African nations participating in the expanded 48-team World Cup, will face Jamaica in a friendly match in Mexico on Friday as part of their final preparations.

Bafana Bafana will then begin their World Cup campaign against hosts Mexico on 11 June.

The team enters the tournament on the back of a disappointing run of results. Their final home friendly ended in a goalless draw against Nicaragua, a match in which they missed a penalty. The result extended South Africa’s winless streak to four matches heading into the competition.

Ethiopians Votes Amid Conflict, Political Tensions And Uncertainty

Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Ethiopians Votes Amid Conflict, Political Tensions And Uncertainty

Millions of Ethiopians have begun voting in a general election held under the shadow of armed conflict, political tension and insecurity across several regions. While officials describe it as a key democratic exercise, large parts of the country remain affected by violence, limiting participation and raising concerns about fairness.

The election is the seventh since Ethiopia’s 1991 political transition, but the country now faces renewed instability, economic pressure and strained regional relations. Notably, the Tigray region has been completely excluded due to the aftermath of its devastating civil war, leaving millions unable to take part.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is widely expected to retain power through his Prosperity Party, which dominates the 547-seat parliament. Since coming to office in 2018, Abiy has introduced major political and economic reforms and earned international praise, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019 for the Ethiopia–Eritrea peace deal.

However, his administration has also faced strong criticism over shrinking political freedoms, media restrictions and the deadly Tigray war, which left hundreds of thousands dead and millions displaced. Human rights groups continue to raise concerns about arrests and press suppression.

Supporters point to infrastructure growth, urban renewal in Addis Ababa, and economic reforms backed by institutions like the IMF and World Bank. Yet inflation and living costs remain major challenges for many citizens.

Security remains fragile in several regions, including ongoing clashes in Amhara involving Fano militias and an insurgency in Oromia by the Oromo Liberation Army. These conflicts have displaced hundreds of thousands and complicated voting in affected areas.

Tensions with Tigray’s political leadership remain unresolved despite the 2022 peace agreement, while relations with Eritrea have also become strained over Red Sea access and regional influence.

Despite these challenges, many voters express hope for stability, security and better economic opportunities. As results are expected to favour Abiy’s party, the next government faces pressure to restore trust, heal divisions and stabilize one of Africa’s most influential nations.

Brazil Monitors Two Suspected Ebola Cases As Outbreak Worsens In Africa

Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Brazil Monitors Two Suspected Ebola Cases As Outbreak Worsens In Africa

Brazilian health authorities are monitoring two patients for possible Ebola infection in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, raising concerns as the outbreak continues to spread in parts of Africa.

Officials in São Paulo said a 37-year-old man from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) was placed under observation after developing symptoms including fever. In Rio de Janeiro, health authorities activated emergency safety protocols after a Belgian man who recently arrived from Uganda reported symptoms such as cough, chills and diarrhoea.

Test results for both patients are expected next week. If either case is confirmed, it would mark the first Ebola infection detected outside Africa since the current outbreak began.

While investigations continue, both patients have already tested positive for other diseases.

The patient in São Paulo was diagnosed with meningitis and remains in serious condition, while the Belgian national in Rio tested positive for malaria. Health officials stressed that these diagnoses do not completely rule out the possibility of Ebola infection, which is why additional testing is being carried out.

Authorities have continued to monitor both individuals closely while following strict containment measures.

The latest health alert comes as the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo continues to worsen. More than 1,000 suspected cases have been reported, with at least 246 deaths recorded so far.

Neighbouring Uganda has also confirmed nine Ebola cases and one death linked to the outbreak.

The current outbreak involves the rare Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, which has no approved vaccine and is known to have a fatality rate of around one-third of infected patients.

Medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) recently warned that the rapid spread of the virus has created an alarming situation, with an unusually high number of cases recorded at an early stage of the outbreak.

Meanwhile, World Health Organization Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is currently visiting Ituri Province in DR Congo, the region most affected by the outbreak, where efforts to contain the virus are ongoing.

Despite the suspected cases in Brazil, the World Health Organization has repeatedly stated that the risk of widespread global transmission remains very low.

How Ebola Spreads

Ebola is a severe viral disease that is believed to originate in animals, particularly fruit bats. Human outbreaks can occur after contact with infected animals or consumption of contaminated meat.

The virus spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person, including blood, saliva, sweat, urine, vomit and other secretions.

Health authorities continue to urge vigilance but emphasize that strict monitoring and containment measures remain effective tools in preventing further spread of the disease.

South Africa’s World Cup Departure Delayed In Visa “Debacle”

Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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South Africa’s World Cup Departure Delayed In Visa “Debacle”

South Africa’s journey to the FIFA World Cup has been delayed by one day after visa complications disrupted the team’s scheduled departure.

The squad had originally been due to leave on Sunday for their training base in Pachuca, Mexico, but the flight was postponed as the South African Football Association (SAFA) worked to resolve documentation issues affecting members of the travelling party.

The delay was later confirmed by Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie, who said the team would now depart on Monday via a charter flight.

According to McKenzie, all Bafana Bafana players have now received the necessary visas to travel through the United States, which is required because of their World Cup fixture schedule.

However, some members of the technical and support staff were still awaiting clearance, including an assistant coach, the team doctor, a head of security, and one analyst.

McKenzie confirmed the situation on social media, saying the charter flight would proceed once arrangements were finalised for the remaining officials.

The sports minister strongly criticised the situation, describing it as “embarrassing and grossly unfair” to both players and coaching staff.

He also accused those responsible of making the country “look like fools,” and demanded accountability from SAFA over how the issue was allowed to happen so close to the tournament.

SAFA acknowledged the disruption in a statement, saying the team was unable to travel as planned due to “challenges regarding visas” for certain individuals, but did not provide further details.

The association reportedly held or planned emergency discussions on Sunday to address the logistical breakdown and finalise travel arrangements.

Government departments, including international relations officials, were also drawn into efforts to resolve the matter and ensure the squad could depart without further delay.

Head coach Hugo Broos had previously hoped the team would arrive in Mexico by June 1 to allow adequate time for recovery, jetlag adjustment and acclimatisation to altitude conditions.

Instead, the delayed departure means the squad will arrive slightly later than planned, reducing preparation time ahead of their opening fixture.

Pachuca, South Africa’s initial base, sits at a significantly higher altitude than Johannesburg, adding to the importance of early arrival for conditioning.

South Africa are scheduled to begin their World Cup campaign on June 11 against hosts Mexico in Mexico City.

They will also face Jamaica in a pre-tournament friendly in Mexico before the opening match.

In the group stage, Bafana Bafana are set to meet the Czech Republic in Atlanta on June 18 and South Korea in Monterrey on June 24, splitting their matches between the United States and Mexico.

The visa delay adds to a growing list of administrative concerns surrounding the team’s World Cup preparations.

During qualification, South Africa were nearly affected by another controversy when a victory over Lesotho was overturned due to the fielding of an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena. Despite the setback, they still managed to top their qualifying group by a narrow margin ahead of Nigeria and Benin.

This tournament marks South Africa’s first World Cup appearance since 2010, when the country hosted the competition.

Expectations are high for Bafana Bafana as they return to football’s biggest stage, but the off-field disruptions have raised concerns about organisation and preparation in the final days before kickoff.

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