Eighty-three more Nigerians to return from South Africa on Wednesday
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced that 83 more Nigerian nationals are scheduled to return from South Africa on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. This evacuation comes amidst rising anti-foreigner sentiments in South Africa. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, stated that the returnees will depart Oliver Tambo Airport, Johannesburg, and are expected to arrive at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at approximately 8:45 pm. This latest group of returnees is being facilitated by the sponsorship of air tickets by private individuals, an effort acknowledged with gratitude by the Federal Government. This follows a government voluntary repatriation program that has already seen nearly 1,490 Nigerians return from South Africa. The Ministry reiterated the Federal Government's commitment, under President Bola Tinubu, to protecting the welfare and dignity of Nigerians globally, viewing those in the diaspora as critical assets for national development. The government also commended the private individuals and philanthropists for their support, describing it as an example of a "whole-of-society approach" and called on other organizations and individuals to support efforts in responding to consular emergencies. The Ministry affirmed its commitment to strengthening diplomatic engagement with South Africa to address the root causes of Afrophobia and prevent violence and discrimination against Nigerians, ensuring perpetrators are held
