A total of 268 Nigerians are expected to arrive in Lagos today from South Africa following a surge in xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in the country.
The returnees, who constitute the first batch of citizens opting for voluntary repatriation, will be received at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye. The Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Ambassador Alexander Ajayi, is also expected to accompany them on the Air Peace evacuation flight scheduled to land at 5:00 a.m.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the evacuation exercise reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the welfare, dignity, and safety of Nigerians abroad. The ministry noted that the ongoing registration and screening of Nigerians willing to return home has been extended until June 14, 2026, to accommodate more affected citizens.
Officials further assured that comprehensive reception, documentation, and reintegration arrangements have been put in place to support the returnees upon arrival.
The move underscores Nigeria’s citizen-centred foreign policy and its determination to provide timely assistance to citizens facing crises overseas.
