By: Dele Aye
The fourth batch of Nigerians voluntarily returning from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks has arrived safely in Lagos.
The 271 returnees were airlifted aboard an Air Peace flight, which landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Friday.
The Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs had earlier confirmed that the evacuation flight departed Johannesburg shortly after midnight on Thursday as part of the Federal Government’s ongoing voluntary repatriation programme for Nigerians affected by the unrest.
With the latest arrival, the number of Nigerians evacuated under the exercise has continued to rise. The first batch, which arrived on June 9, brought home 258 returnees, followed by 66 in the second batch and 269 in the third.
The evacuation comes in response to renewed xenophobic tensions in South Africa, where protests targeting foreign nationals intensified in recent days. On June 30, groups of demonstrators staged marches demanding the removal of foreigners from the country, prompting concerns over the safety of migrant communities, including Nigerians.
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to protecting the lives and welfare of Nigerians abroad and says it will continue to facilitate the safe return of citizens who choose to leave South Africa while monitoring developments in the country.
