The first batch of Nigerians being evacuated from South Africa in the wake of recent xenophobic attacks is expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Thursday morning.
The returnees are being flown home on an Air Peace flight scheduled to depart O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday night, according to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Spokesperson for the ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the aircraft is expected to land in Lagos at about 5 a.m. on Thursday, marking the first phase of the repatriation exercise.
The evacuation follows renewed attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, prompting Nigerian authorities to intervene and facilitate the voluntary return of affected citizens.
The federal government had earlier assured Nigerians in South Africa of its commitment to their safety and welfare, while engaging relevant authorities to address the situation and prevent further escalation.
