Second Batch of Nigerians Evacuated from South Africa

On June 11, 2023, the second batch of Nigerians, numbering 66, returned from South Africa, arriving at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. This return was part of an ongoing evacuation exercise approved by the Nigerian government to ensure the welfare of distressed citizens abroad.

The latest group followed the first batch of 258 Nigerians airlifted on June 11. The evacuation flight was facilitated by ValueJet, with Kunle Soname, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, overseeing the operation.

NIDCOM Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa, along with Ambassador Temitop Alex Ajayi, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for approving the evacuation. Dipo Onabowal, head of NIDCOM's Lagos office, commended the president for his citizen-focused response.

Various stakeholders, including Governor Hope Uzodinma, who donated 1 million Naira, and MTN Nigeria, which provided free SIM packs and data, supported the returnees. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and Nigeria Immigration Service were also involved in assisting the returnees.