The third batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa has arrived in Lagos as the Federal Government continues its emergency evacuation programme for citizens returning from the southern African country.
The Air Peace aircraft conveying about 271 evacuees landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, shortly before 11 a.m. on Tuesday.
The latest arrival follows the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to facilitate the voluntary return of Nigerians amid growing concerns over planned anti-immigrant protests and the safety of undocumented migrants in South Africa.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, had on Monday confirmed that the third evacuation flight would arrive on Tuesday with 271 Nigerians on board.
The evacuation exercise was initiated following the June 30 deadline issued by some vigilante groups and organisations demanding that undocumented migrants leave South Africa.
Evacuation programme continues
The latest flight represents the third batch of Nigerians repatriated under the Federal Government’s evacuation programme.
According to available records, the first batch brought back 258 Nigerians, while the second evacuation flight returned 66 citizens.
With the arrival of the third batch, the number of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa under the exercise has risen significantly as authorities continue to monitor developments.
The Federal Government has assured affected citizens of its commitment to protecting their welfare and ensuring the safe return of those willing to come back home.
Ramaphosa urges peaceful protests
Meanwhile, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has appealed for calm amid growing tensions over illegal immigration in the country.
In a nationwide address on Monday, Ramaphosa acknowledged public concerns regarding undocumented migrants but stressed that any protests must remain peaceful and within the confines of the law.
He warned against violence, intimidation, vandalism and attacks targeting foreign nationals, insisting that immigration enforcement is the responsibility of government agencies.
The South African leader urged citizens to respect the rule of law while authorities continue to address immigration-related concerns through lawful procedures.
FG monitors situation
The Federal Government has continued to monitor the situation in South Africa through its diplomatic missions while coordinating the evacuation of Nigerians who have indicated a willingness to return home.
Authorities have maintained that the evacuation programme is part of efforts to safeguard Nigerian citizens as concerns over anti-immigrant demonstrations persist.
Officials are expected to continue assessing the situation in South Africa to determine whether additional evacuation flights may be required in the coming days.