Nigeria Aids Return of 852 Citizens from South Africa

The Nigerian government successfully airlifted 852 Nigerians from South Africa in response to recent xenophobic attacks. The fourth batch, consisting of 266 individuals, arrived safely at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos on a Friday.

Abdur Rahman Balogun, Director of Media and Public Relations at the Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), confirmed the return and announced a support package for the returnees. Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma pledged 1 million naira for the returnees, while MTN Nigeria donated free SIM cards and data valued at 50,000 naira.

Additional support was promised by the Edo and Delta State governments, with the Jaal Foundation committing to empower 100 female returnees. The evacuation was coordinated by NIDCOM and the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa, under the directive of President Bola Tinubu, who emphasized the importance of ensuring the safe and dignified return of Nigerians facing difficulties abroad.

The returnees expressed gratitude for the government's efforts and support.