South Africa has started sending back 586 Nigerians found living in the country without valid immigration documents, officials say.
South African authorities began the process on June 11 after declaring the affected individuals undesirable under immigration laws.
The Department of Home Affairs said 268 Nigerians were deported in the first batch. It added that the rest will be flown out on June 15. The agency said all those affected were issued emergency travel documents by the Nigerian High Commission to enable their return.
It said the individuals would not be allowed to return to South Africa for five years. Officials also confirmed cooperation with the Nigerian High Commission during documentation and removal.
South Africa’s Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, said the government is tightening immigration enforcement. He said deportations has increased in recent years as part of ongoing reforms.
He also said new systems are being introduced to improve border control and identity verification. These include digital identity tools and expanded electronic travel authorisation.
The minister urged foreign nationals to comply with immigration rules and warned against violence targeting migrants.
Michael Olugbode
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