FG Evacuates 269 Nigerians as Xenophobia Tensions Escalate in South Africa

The Federal Government has intensified efforts to evacuate Nigerians from South Africa following renewed anti-immigrant protests and rising concerns over the safety of foreign nationals, while assuring citizens who remain in the country that diplomatic measures are being strengthened to protect them. A fresh batch of 269 Nigerians arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Tuesday aboard an Air Peace flight from Johannesburg. The latest evacuation follows the earlier return of 66 Nigerians on June 24, bringing the total number of government-assisted returnees in recent days to 335. The evacuations come as thousands of demonstrators staged anti migrant protests across several South African cities, demanding tougher action against undocumented foreigners. Although authorities described the demonstrations as largely peaceful, police confirmed isolated incidents of looting, intimidation, vandalism and assaults. Security personnel were deployed across major cities, including Johannesburg, where businesses shut down in parts of the commercial district as tensions rose. Fresh concerns have also followed the reported killing of a Nigerian businessman, popularly known as "Big Joe," who was shot outside his shop in Mpumalanga Province. South African police have begun investigations into the incident, while Nigerian officials continue to monitor the situation. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa appealed for calm, stressing that lawful foreign residents are entitled to protection under the country's Constitution. He urged protesters to exercise their right peacefully without resorting to violence or intimidation.

Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said evacuation flights would continue for citizens who voluntarily registered to return home. The ministry added that discussions with South African authorities remain ongoing to ensure the safety of Nigerians still residing in the country. Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Temitope Ajayi, explained that reports of Nigerians stranded outside the embassy resulted from misinformation after some community groups advised people to gather before they had been officially scheduled for evacuation. He said the embassy has continued providing temporary shelter, food and other humanitarian assistance while departures are being organised in phases. Community leaders estimate that hundreds of Nigerians have already been screened and cleared for evacuation, with additional flights expected in the coming days. They also called on Nigerian state governments to support returnees through reintegration programmes. Meanwhile, retired diplomats have urged the Federal Government to deepen diplomatic engagement with Pretoria to address recurring attacks on Nigerians and improve cooperation on immigration issues. The National Association of University Students also condemned the renewed xenophobic tensions, warning that it could organise nationwide protests if stronger action is not taken to protect Nigerians living in South Africa. As evacuation efforts continue, the Federal Government says it remains committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens while working with South African authorities to prevent further violence and provide lasting protection for Nigerians in the country.

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