The federal government has initiated plans to evacuate Nigerians from South Africa following a fresh wave of xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals. The move comes amid growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians living and working in the country. In a statement issued on Sunday, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu said President Bola Tinubu has approved the provision of evacuation flights for citizens willing to return home. The directive underscores the government's response to escalating tensions.
According to the minister, arrangements are already underway to document affected Nigerians. She disclosed that about 130 citizens have registered with Nigeria’s mission in South Africa so far.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that the number of registered individuals is expected to increase as Nigerian community groups intensify efforts to support the ongoing registration process.
Describing the attacks as a recurring pattern, the minister said the violence represents a “repetitive wave,” adding that anti-foreigner groups often exploit such incidents for political advantage.
“Nigerian lives and businesses in South Africa must not continue to be put at risk,” she said, stressing the urgency of intervention.
She added that Nigeria is engaging with South African authorities to address the crisis. Both countries, she noted, recently signed a memorandum of understanding focused on early warning systems to safeguard citizens during periods of unrest.
The minister also urged leaders of Nigerian associations in South Africa to compile lists of individuals who wish to return but cannot afford travel costs, to facilitate evacuation planning.
Officials at the Nigerian consulate, working alongside the high commission in Pretoria, are currently gathering data required to organise special evacuation flights for affected citizens.
To qualify for repatriation, Nigerians are required to submit personal information including passport details, state of origin, and proof of circumstances. The minister emphasized that registration for the exercise is free of charge.