The fourth batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa amid ongoing anti-immigrant tensions has arrived safely in Lagos, marking another phase of the Federal Government’s voluntary repatriation programme for citizens who chose to return home.
The Air Peace aircraft touched down at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at about 10:42 a.m. on Friday, bringing home hundreds of Nigerians fleeing the growing hostility directed at foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.
The latest arrival comes as Nigerian authorities continue to work with relevant agencies to facilitate the safe return of citizens affected by the unrest. Earlier evacuation flights had also transported hundreds of Nigerians back home under the coordinated exercise.
Returnees begin journey home
One of the returnees, who arrived with her children, told journalists shortly after landing that her immediate priority was to reunite with her family.
She said she was heading to Nigeria’s South-East to visit her aged mother before making any decisions about her next steps.
Her remarks reflected the emotional relief shared by many of the evacuees, several of whom have endured weeks of uncertainty following renewed anti-migrant hostilities in South Africa.
Government continues evacuation efforts
The Federal Government has maintained that the evacuation exercise is voluntary and intended to assist Nigerians who wish to leave South Africa due to security concerns.
Officials from relevant government agencies have continued receiving returnees at the airport, providing the necessary documentation and support to ease their reintegration.
The evacuation programme follows heightened tensions in South Africa, where protests targeting undocumented migrants and foreign nationals have prompted concerns for the safety of Nigerians and other African nationals living in the country.
Details later…