Xenophobia Fallout: First Batch of Nigerians Fleeing South Africa Set to Arrive Lagos Thursday

Xenophobia Fallout: First Batch of Nigerians Fleeing South Africa Set to Arrive Lagos Thursday

June 9, 2026

The first batch of Nigerians being repatriated from South Africa in the wake of renewed xenophobic attacks is expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in the early hours of Thursday, as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to protect its citizens abroad.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, who confirmed that arrangements had been concluded for the safe evacuation of affected Nigerians wishing to return home.

According to the ministry, the returnees will be airlifted aboard an Air Peace aircraft scheduled to depart O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday night. The flight is expected to touch down in Lagos at approximately 5:00 a.m. on Thursday.

The repatriation comes amid growing concerns over a fresh wave of xenophobic violence in parts of South Africa, where foreign nationals, including Nigerians, have reportedly been subjected to attacks, intimidation, and threats to their safety and livelihoods.

Nigerian authorities said the evacuation exercise is part of an emergency response aimed at assisting citizens who have expressed a desire to leave South Africa due to the deteriorating security situation.

The Federal Government had earlier assured Nigerians residing in South Africa that their welfare and security remain a top priority. Officials said diplomatic engagements are ongoing with South African authorities to address the attacks and ensure adequate protection for foreign nationals.

The latest development has reignited memories of previous xenophobic incidents that strained relations between Africa's two largest economies. In past outbreaks, Nigerian-owned businesses were looted and destroyed, while several citizens were forced to abandon their homes and livelihoods.

Government sources indicated that additional evacuation arrangements could be made should more Nigerians indicate interest in returning home. Relevant agencies have also been placed on standby to receive and support the returnees upon their arrival in Lagos.

The evacuation is expected to provide relief to many affected Nigerians who have faced uncertainty and fear amid the recent unrest. Families and relatives of those returning are already anticipating their arrival, while stakeholders continue to call for stronger measures to prevent recurring xenophobic violence on the African continent.

As the first group heads home, attention remains focused on the situation in South Africa and the outcome of diplomatic efforts aimed at guaranteeing the safety, dignity, and rights of Nigerians and other foreign nationals living in the country.

Further details regarding the number of evacuees and subsequent flights are expected to be released by the Federal Government in the coming days