By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
LAGOS — The first batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks and anti-immigrant tensions arrived in Lagos on Thursday, marking the beginning of a Federal Government-backed repatriation exercise aimed at bringing home citizens who no longer feel safe in the southern African nation.
The returnees, numbering about 270, were flown into the Murtala Muhammed International Airport aboard an Air Peace aircraft after departing Johannesburg on Wednesday night.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the evacuation was fully funded by the Federal Government and formed part of measures approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure the safety and welfare of Nigerians affected by the growing hostility towards foreign nationals in South Africa.
READ ALSO:Portugal Edge Nigeria 2-1 in International Friendly
According to the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, over 500 Nigerians had been screened and cleared for evacuation, while more than 1,000 citizens registered for voluntary repatriation amid fears generated by attacks and threats against immigrants.
The latest wave of xenophobic tensions has swept across several South African communities, where groups demanding stricter immigration controls have targeted foreign-owned businesses and demanded that undocumented migrants leave the country. Reports indicate that at least five African migrants were killed and thousands displaced, forcing many to seek refuge under police protection or return to their home countries.
Nigeria is among several African nations, including Ghana, Malawi and Mozambique, that have begun evacuating citizens from South Africa as fears over escalating violence mount.
READ ALSO:Xenophobic Attacks: South African Prince Calls for Unity
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the attacks and warned against vigilantism, insisting that immigration enforcement remains the responsibility of the state. He also pledged decisive action against groups accused of inciting violence and exploiting public frustration over unemployment and economic hardship.
The Merit Newspaper reports that South Africa has long been a destination for migrants seeking economic opportunities, but the country has periodically witnessed outbreaks of xenophobic violence, with immigrants often blamed for unemployment, crime and pressure on public services.
Diplomatic relations between Nigeria and South Africa have come under strain following the recent attacks. Nigerian authorities have repeatedly expressed concern over the safety of citizens and demanded adequate protection for Nigerians living and working in South Africa.
Officials said additional evacuation flights have been approved as authorities continue to process applications from Nigerians willing to return home.
The repatriation exercise underscores renewed concerns over the recurring challenge of xenophobia in South Africa and the need for stronger continental efforts to protect African migrants and promote the spirit of unity and pan-African solidarity envisioned by the continent’s founding leaders.
