The first group of Nigerians affected by recent xenophobic-related tensions in South Africa is scheduled to return home on Thursday, with their arrival expected at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
The Punch reported that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the development in a statement on Tuesday through its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, noting that the evacuation is part of coordinated efforts to assist citizens willing to return amid rising safety concerns.
According to the ministry, the returnees will be flown out of Johannesburg aboard an Air Peace aircraft departing from O.R. Tambo International Airport on Wednesday night, with landing in Lagos projected for around 5:00 a.m. on Thursday.
The exercise comes in the wake of renewed attacks and tensions affecting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, which prompted Nigerian authorities to activate arrangements for voluntary evacuation and consular support.
The Federal Government has repeatedly assured Nigerians in South Africa of its commitment to their protection, stating that it is engaging relevant authorities to address the situation and prevent further escalation.
