Korede Abdullah 
Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign, Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Federal Government has commenced the emergency repatriation of Nigerians affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, with the first batch of evacuees expected to arrive in Lagos on Thursday.
The evacuation, fully funded by the government, comes amid growing concerns over the safety of Nigerian nationals caught up in renewed anti-foreigner violence in parts of South Africa.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the evacuation flight would depart from Johannesburg’s Oliver Tambo International Airport on Wednesday night and land at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at approximately 5:00 a.m. on Thursday.
Authorities confirmed that the operation will be carried out by Air Peace and that no evacuee will bear any transportation costs.
The government said the intervention is aimed at providing immediate humanitarian assistance to Nigerians affected by the attacks and ensuring their safe return home.
Officials disclosed that comprehensive reception arrangements have been put in place for the returnees upon arrival in Lagos.
“The Federal Government, through relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, has put in place the necessary reception and support arrangements for the returnees,” the ministry stated.
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