The Nigerian Federal Government evacuated 105 distressed citizens from South Africa on September 24, 2026, following renewed xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other Africans in the country, according to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). The group, consisting of 82 adults and 23 children, arrived in Lagos via South African Airways flight SA060 at 8:30 p.m. The MFA, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), and National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) coordinated the repatriation, as reported by MFA spokesperson Oluwafemi Adeniyi.
The evacuation marks the 13th consular operation since June 10, 2026, and brings the total number of repatriated Nigerians to 1,821. Of these, 1,388 were fully funded by the government, while 100 of the latest 105 returnees were supported by a $265,854 donation from the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), which provided one-way tickets for 500 distressed Nigerians. Five individuals were evacuated with private funding, per the MFA. The government reiterated its collaboration with RCCG and other philanthropists to assist additional Nigerians seeking to leave South Africa due to safety concerns.
The MFA expressed deep concern over persistent xenophobic and Afrophobic violence against Nigerians in South Africa, emphasizing ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure cooperation from South African authorities. It praised RCCG’s contribution, led by Enoch Adejare Adeboye, and acknowledged other supporters of the evacuation program. The ministry also urged Nigerians in South Africa to remain vigilant, comply with local laws, and maintain contact with Nigerian diplomatic missions for consular assistance.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Nigerians abroad, stating it would deploy appropriate measures when necessary. This evacuation underscores the escalating challenges faced by African migrants in South Africa, even as the country grapples with declining airline passenger traffic and broader socio-economic pressures. The MFA’s actions reflect a broader strategy to mitigate risks for citizens amid regional instability.