Xenophobia: FG extends evacuation screening for Nigerians in South Africa to June 10

The Nigerian federal government has extended the screening exercise for its nationals in South Africa who wish to return home, with the deadline now set for June 10, 2026. This decision follows ongoing efforts to process all interested Nigerians seeking evacuation amid renewed xenophobic attacks targeting African migrants.

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I just received confirmation from our Mission in Pretoria that the screening exercise of Nigerian nationals that have indicated interest to be evacuated back home has been extended to Wednesday, 10th June, 2026.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the extension, stating that the Nigerian Mission in Pretoria communicated the decision. The screening process, which commenced on Thursday, is being conducted jointly by the Nigerian High Commission, South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, and South African police and immigration authorities. This collaborative effort aims to determine the exact number of Nigerians cleared for evacuation before final arrangements for their return flights are made.

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So far, over 500 persons have been screened and cleared.

So far, over 500 Nigerians have been screened and cleared for evacuation. President Bola Tinubu has approved five evacuation flights, with the domestic carrier Air Peace designated to operate them. The first flight, expected to carry approximately 270 passengers, is scheduled to depart from Johannesburg on Monday evening, pending the necessary permits and clearances. The evacuation initiative is part of the Nigerian government's commitment to assisting its citizens affected by the xenophobic violence in South Africa.

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Mr President has approved five evacuation flights that will be operated by Air Peace, and the first flight, which will airlift about 270 passengers, is expected to leave Johannesburg on Monday evening if the necessary permits and clearance are secured for the aircraft.