First batch of repatriated Nigerians arrive in Lagos from South Africa

The first batch of Nigerians repatriated from South Africa following recent xenophobic violence has arrived in Lagos.

A total of 268 returnees touched down at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport at approximately 10:30 a.m. on Thursday aboard an Air Peace flight.

The evacuation flight was initially scheduled for Monday but was later rescheduled to Wednesday due to documentation delays.

Authorities say more than 1,000 Nigerians have indicated interest in returning home amid rising tensions and safety concerns in South Africa.

Earlier in the week, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed that the number of Nigerians seeking evacuation continued to grow. She added that Nigeria’s High Commission in Pretoria had successfully negotiated waivers with South African authorities, allowing individuals with immigration-related issues to depart without facing detention.

The screening process for prospective returnees began last Thursday and was originally set to conclude on Saturday. However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs extended the exercise until Sunday to accommodate the increasing number of applicants.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the ministry emphasized that the development reflects the government’s commitment to protecting Nigerian citizens abroad.

“This underscores the priority accorded to the protection of Nigerian citizens overseas, which remains a central pillar of Nigeria’s foreign policy and a core responsibility of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” the statement read.

The ministry further noted that the federal government, in collaboration with relevant ministries, departments, and agencies, has put in place comprehensive arrangements for the reception, documentation, and support of the returnees.