83 Nigerian returnees arrive in Lagos from South Africa

A total of 83 Nigerian returnees arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos aboard a South African Airways flight from Johannesburg on Wednesday.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this to newsmen in a statement that was issued by its Spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.

He stated that the returnees were accompanied by two officials from the Consulate-General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Ebienfa noted that the repatriation was facilitated through the procurement of flight tickets by good-spirited private individuals, whose generous support enabled their safe return to Nigeria.

He added that upon arrival, the returnees were received by Ambassador Haruna Ali-Gombe, the Director, African Affairs Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who welcomed them on behalf of the Federal Government.

Ebienfa said: “They were handed over to relevant government agencies for necessary documentation and profiling ahead of their reunification with their families.”

He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare and safe return of all Nigerian citizens abroad, and profound appreciation to the Nigerian Mission in South Africa.

He expressed appreciation to the private individuals who sponsored the exercise and agencies involved in ensuring smooth reception and reintegration process.