The Federal Government has approved five evacuation flights to repatriate Nigerians affected by renewed xenophobic tensions in South Africa, with more than 500 citizens already screened and cleared for return.
The development was confirmed on Sunday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, who also announced that the screening exercise has been extended until Wednesday, June 10, 2026, to allow more Nigerians to register for evacuation.
According to Ebienfa, President Bola Tinubu approved the deployment of five evacuation flights to be operated by Air Peace. The first flight is expected to depart Johannesburg on Monday evening, subject to the completion of required aviation permits and clearances.
“I just received confirmation from our Mission in Pretoria that the screening exercise of Nigerian nationals who have indicated interest in being evacuated back home has been extended to Wednesday, 10th June, 2026. So far, over 500 persons have been screened and cleared,” he said.
Ebienfa further disclosed that the first flight is expected to transport approximately 270 passengers.
“Mr. President has approved five evacuation flights that will be operated by Air Peace and the first flight, which will airlift about 270 passengers, is expected to leave Johannesburg on Monday evening if the necessary permits and clearance are secured for the aircraft,” he stated.
He added that details regarding departure schedules and arrival times would be communicated once finalized by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria.
The evacuation initiative follows a fresh wave of xenophobic incidents in parts of South Africa, where attacks, threats, and intimidation targeting foreign nationals have created fear and uncertainty among migrant communities.
Prior to approving the evacuation, Nigerian authorities commenced a screening exercise through the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria in collaboration with South African immigration officials, law enforcement agencies, and diplomatic partners. The exercise was designed to verify the identities of Nigerians willing to return home and establish an accurate passenger manifest.
While initial estimates suggested that around 400 Nigerians were interested in returning, the number has now exceeded 500 following the ongoing registration process.
Reports indicate that several migrants affected by the unrest have sought refuge in temporary shelters as tensions continue in some communities.
South African authorities have condemned the attacks and warned that security agencies would take action against individuals or groups found responsible for unlawful acts targeting foreign nationals.
Nigeria’s evacuation programme mirrors similar efforts by other African countries, including Ghana and Mozambique, which have also begun facilitating the return of their citizens amid the ongoing tensions.
The Federal Government emphasized that the evacuation process remains voluntary and will be carried out in phases. Officials also confirmed that diplomatic engagements with South African authorities are continuing to safeguard Nigerians who choose to remain in the country.
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