Xenophobia: 83 more Nigerians to return from South Africa Wednesday

Nigeria is preparing to welcome another group of 83 citizens evacuated from South Africa, as escalating xenophobic attacks continue to threaten the safety of Nigerians in the country. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that the returnees are scheduled to arrive at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.

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The Ministry wishes to note that this latest cohort of returnees is facilitated through the kind intervention and sponsorship of tickets by public-spirited private individuals, whose generosity the Federal Government acknowledges with profound gratitude.

The latest evacuation flight is set to depart from Johannesburg's Oliver Tambo Airport at 3:35 p.m. local time aboard a South African Airways plane, with an estimated arrival in Lagos at 8:45 p.m. the same day. The Nigerian government highlighted that the air tickets for this group were sponsored by public-spirited private individuals, expressing profound gratitude for their generosity.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to assist Nigerians facing discrimination and violence abroad. It follows the conclusion of a voluntary repatriation program that saw approximately 1,490 Nigerians return home. The Ministry reiterated President Bola Tinubu's administration's commitment to protecting the welfare and dignity of Nigerians, both domestically and internationally.

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The Ministry commends their patriotism and selflessness, which have significantly alleviated the plight of our compatriots in South Africa.

The government views Nigerians in the diaspora as vital assets for national development and is dedicated to ensuring their safety and well-being. The Ministry also urged other private sector organizations and well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the philanthropic spirit shown by those who sponsored the current evacuation, encouraging a "whole-of-society approach" to consular emergencies. Furthermore, Nigeria plans to strengthen diplomatic ties with South Africa to address the root causes of xenophobia and prevent future attacks against its citizens.

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The government’s Citizen Diplomacy agenda viewed Nigerians in the diaspora “not as a burden, but as critical assets for national development,” adding that it was committed to ensuring their protection and well-being.