FG repatriating over 1,000 nationals from S’Africa as tensions rise

Nigeria is preparing to repatriate more than 1,000 of its citizens from South Africa amid a surge in anti-immigrant sentiment and violence. This move by Abuja comes shortly after Ghana repatriated hundreds of its citizens from South Africa in response to protests and attacks targeting foreigners.

Screening for Nigeria's voluntary repatriation program began Thursday, with the foreign ministry expecting over 1,000 individuals to return. Nigeria's High Commission in Pretoria has reportedly negotiated waivers with South African authorities, allowing those with immigration-related offenses to depart on repatriation flights without detention. This measure aims to facilitate the return of Nigerians facing difficult circumstances in South Africa.

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We are expecting over a 1,000 persons.

South Africa, the continent's most industrialized economy, has historically attracted workers from across Africa. However, with an unemployment rate exceeding 30 percent, the country has experienced recurring waves of xenophobic violence. Recent weeks have seen renewed unrest, fueling uncomfortable debates across the continent about xenophobia, migration, and the disparity between pan-African solidarity rhetoric and the lived experiences of migrants.

Fears of further violence have been heightened by an ultimatum from a citizen-led group demanding the expulsion of undocumented migrants by June 30. While the South African government has stated it is increasing enforcement against undocumented immigrants, it has also urged citizens not to resort to vigilantism. Foreigners constitute 5.1 percent of South Africa's population, with a majority originating from within the Southern African Development Community bloc.

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We have negotiated waivers with host authorities