RCCG donates N352 million to repatriate 500 Nigerians from South Africa

The Redeemed Christian Church of God has donated $265,854 to help bring 500 Nigerians home from South Africa, where continuing xenophobic violence has left Nigerians distressed and, in some cases, dead.

The donation, valued at N352 million at an exchange rate of N1,324 to the dollar, will pay for 500 one-way air tickets. Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the contribution in a statement signed by spokesperson Olufemi Adeniyi. The money came through the church led by Pastor Enoch Adeboye.

The ministry described the contribution as an expression of compassion and solidarity. It said cooperation between faith-based groups, public institutions and other stakeholders could support government efforts to address social problems. “We are grateful for this partnership and look forward to working with the church’s leadership in South Africa, as the generous donation is deployed to the evacuation of 500 distressed Nigerians,” the statement said.

Around 1,640 Nigerians have been evacuated since the latest wave of xenophobia began in April. The most recent operation brought 67 Nigerians home last week. At least five Nigerians have died during the violence, including Chika Simon, whose death during an encounter with the South African Police Service was described by Nigeria’s consulate as occurring under questionable circumstances. Earlier deaths included Amaramiro Emmanuel, Ekpenyong Andrew, Emeka Iroegbu and Musa Joe. The Nigerian government summoned South Africa’s high commissioner after the first two deaths and demanded a thorough investigation.

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We are grateful for this partnership and look forward to working with the church’s leadership in South Africa, as the generous donation is deployed to the evacuation of 500 distressed Nigerians.