Nigerians evacuated from South Africa following renewed xenophobic tensions have arrived safely in Lagos, marking a significant step in the Federal Government’s efforts to protect its citizens abroad.
The evacuees touched down at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at approximately 10:15 a.m. on Thursday aboard an Air Peace aircraft.
Their return forms part of a coordinated evacuation exercise initiated by the Federal Government in response to recent attacks and growing insecurity affecting foreign nationals in South Africa.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, was expected to receive the returnees on arrival and oversee arrangements for their safe reintegration.
The evacuation follows heightened concerns over the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa amid reports of violence, intimidation and attacks targeting foreign-owned businesses and communities.
In recent weeks, renewed incidents of xenophobic violence have sparked fear among many Nigerians residing in the country, prompting calls for urgent intervention by the Nigerian government.
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and protection of Nigerians abroad, assuring citizens that it will continue diplomatic engagements with South African authorities to safeguard lives and property and prevent further escalation of tensions.
Officials also emphasized that efforts are ongoing to monitor the situation and provide necessary support to affected Nigerians while pursuing lasting solutions through diplomatic channels.
