Nigeria Repatriates 1,695 Citizens from South Africa

Nigeria has evacuated 1,695 of its citizens from South Africa in 2023 due to threats against foreign nationals, as stated by the Acting High Commissioner to South Africa, Ambassador Ajayi Alexander. This total includes 1,490 Nigerians repatriated through government-sponsored flights and 205 who returned with private support.

The Nigerian government funded five repatriation flights, each carrying at least 200 Nigerians, and also arranged additional one-way tickets for those wishing to leave. The evacuations were voluntary, with some registered individuals not showing up for flights.

Many repatriated individuals owned property or were legal residents who faced issues renewing their permits. The mission is preparing for another evacuation, with the Redeemed Christian Church of God offering to sponsor 500 Nigerians.

Alexander noted ongoing threats from anti-immigrant groups in South Africa and emphasized the importance of preventing violence against Nigerians. Despite these challenges, he affirmed strong relations between Nigeria and South Africa, with ongoing discussions to address the safety of Nigerians abroad.