271 Nigerians Return from South Africa Amid Xenophobia

On Tuesday, 271 Nigerian nationals returned to Lagos from South Africa, escaping xenophobic attacks. They arrived aboard an Air Peace Boeing 777-200 at Murtala Muhammed International Airport at 10:35 AM.

Emmanuela Akagosu, one of the returnees, described her ordeal, stating that South Africa was not a safe place for Nigerians, citing constant threats to their lives. She mentioned leaving everything behind except for two boxes.

The Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), represented by Dipo Odebowal, provided support to the returnees, with various organizations contributing to their welfare. Pastor Bolaji Idowu donated N100,000, while MTN provided N50,000 worth of recharge cards.

Edo State Migration Agency's director, Lucki Agazuma, arranged food packs and transport for the returnees, with Governor Mondai Okpebholo ensuring their reintegration into society. This mission is part of a broader effort, with a total of 533 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa in recent months.