The Federal Government of Nigeria has evacuated another batch of 111 distressed citizens from South Africa, bringing the total number of evacuations to 2,037. The returnees, comprising 44 men, 23 women, and 44 children, arrived in Lagos on October 8, 2026, aboard South African Airways Flight SA060. This evacuation was made possible by a $265,854 donation from the Redeemed Christian Church of God to support the repatriation of 500 Nigerians.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the evacuation in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi. The returnees were received by officials from the ministry, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, and the National Emergency Management Agency. This is the 15th consular evacuation conducted from South Africa since June 10, 2026.
The evacuation exercise is part of the Federal Government's efforts to address xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks in South Africa. The government has expressed appreciation to the Redeemed Christian Church of God, under the leadership of Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, for its financial support. So far, 318 Nigerians have benefited from the RCCG-funded evacuation, with 182 more expected to be repatriated under the church's commitment.
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to engaging with South African authorities and other stakeholders to address xenophobia and Afrophobia. The government aims to promote the welfare, safety, and dignity of Nigerians residing in South Africa. Nigerians living in South Africa have been advised to comply with local laws, remain vigilant, and prioritize their safety.
The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg are available to provide consular assistance to Nigerians in South Africa. The Federal Government has assured that it will continue to provide timely consular support to Nigerians in the diaspora and safeguard their welfare and well-being.
The evacuation brings relief to the affected families and individuals who have been impacted by the xenophobic attacks in South Africa. The Federal Government's efforts to evacuate its citizens have been ongoing since the escalation of violence against Nigerians in South Africa.
The Nigerian government will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to ensure the safe return of its citizens and address the root causes of xenophobia and Afrophobia in South Africa.
Key points
- * The Federal Government has evacuated 111 more Nigerians from South Africa, bringing the total number of evacuations to 2,037. * The evacuation was funded by a $265,854 donation from the Redeemed Christian Church of God. * The government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing xenophobia and Afrophobia in South Africa and promoting the welfare and safety of Nigerians residing there.
