Federal Government extends South Africa evacuation, 270 more Nigerians expected
via Punch Nigeria10 min read
The Federal Government has announced plans to evacuate 270 Nigerian nationals from South Africa due to renewed xenophobic attacks and deteriorating security conditions. This will be the fourth special flight operated by Air Peace, departing Lagos for Johannesburg on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, and returning to Nigeria with the evacuees. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated the aircraft is expected to depart Lagos at 3:30 p.m. and arrive back at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, around 5:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, expressed concern over the safety of Nigerians, especially following the deaths of Musa Yunana Joe and Charles Iroegbu. She urged South African authorities to investigate these incidents and prosecute those responsible. The minister also called on Nigerians in South Africa to utilize the ongoing evacuation program, noting that President Bola Tinubu approved an extension beyond the June 30 deadline. Another evacuation flight is scheduled for July 7, with the final one expected on July 10. She advised citizens to prioritize their safety, emphasizing that lives cannot be replaced, unlike material losses.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Super Falcons forward Rinsola Babajide stated that qualification for the next FIFA Women’s World Cup will motivate Nigeria as they prepare for the expanded 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The tournament, scheduled from July 25 to August 16, will feature 16 teams for the first time and offers spots in the next FIFA Women’s World Cup. Babajide, an AS Roma Women winger, told the Nigerian Football Federation that the expanded format will increase competition, but Nigeria's goal remains to defend their continental title. She emphasized that the pressure to win is constant, whether for the African championship or World Cup qualification. Babajide, who was part of the Super Falcons team that won the continental title in Morocco last year, noted that her football journey in England and Nigeria has shaped her, teaching her resilience and professionalism. The Super Falcons are in Group C with Malawi, Zambia, and Egypt, and will start their campaign against Malawi in Rabat on July 28.
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