Key facts
- 1,926 Nigerians have been repatriated from South Africa since June.
- The latest group of 105 returnees included 26 men, 29 women, and 50 children.
- This was the 14th evacuation flight from South Africa.
- Nigeria is working with South African authorities to address xenophobic violence.
Another 105 Nigerians arrived in Lagos from South Africa on Friday, bringing the total number repatriated since June to 1,926 following a wave of xenophobic attacks. The foreign ministry confirmed the latest group comprised 26 men, 29 women, and 50 children.
This was the 14th consular evacuation flight from South Africa since the program began on June 10, according to foreign ministry spokesperson Oluwafemi Adeniyi. The repatriation exercise is ongoing, with more Nigerians undergoing verification and clearance in South Africa for future flights.
Nigeria has stated it is collaborating with South African authorities to combat xenophobic violence and has advised its citizens in South Africa to remain vigilant, adhere to local laws, and seek consular assistance from its mission in Pretoria.
Many African migrants have lived in South Africa since the end of white-minority rule in 1994, seeking better opportunities. However, with an unemployment rate exceeding 30%, anti-migrant sentiment has surged, leading to protests and attacks. One Nigerian passenger, Justin, who had lived in South Africa since 1998, told the BBC he was leaving due to the prevailing conditions and fear for his safety, recounting a recent attack where he lost his belongings. Another returnee, Chinwe Osuala, a hairdresser and mother of three, shared her experience of being attacked at her business premises, prompting her return due to concerns for her children's safety.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, head of Nigeria's Diaspora Commission, indicated that returnees would receive financial assistance and transportation to their home states. Nigeria's Consul General in South Africa, Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, argued that migrants, constituting less than 10% of South Africa's population, are being scapegoated for the country's systemic issues in education, healthcare, and employment.