Xenophobia: FG Extends Evacuation Screening for Nigerians in South Africa to June 10

The Federal Government has extended the screening exercise for Nigerians in South Africa seeking voluntary evacuation back home, pushing the deadline to June 10, 2026.

The extension was announced on Sunday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, following ongoing efforts to process all Nigerians who have indicated interest in returning to the country amid renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

The ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the decision was communicated by Nigeria’s Mission in Pretoria.

The development comes a day after the ministry announced the conclusion of the screening exercise, which began on June 4 and involved officials of the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, the South African Police, and immigration authorities.

According to Ebienfa, the extension became necessary to accommodate more Nigerians seeking to participate in the evacuation programme.

“I just received confirmation from our Mission in Pretoria that the screening exercise of Nigerian nationals that have indicated interest to be evacuated back home has been extended to Wednesday, June 10, 2026,” he said.

He disclosed that more than 500 Nigerians have already been screened and cleared for evacuation, with the number expected to rise before the exercise concludes.

“So far, over 500 persons have been screened and cleared,” he stated.

The spokesperson further revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had approved five evacuation flights to facilitate the return of affected Nigerians.

According to him, Nigerian carrier Air Peace has been designated to operate the flights.

Ebienfa explained that the first evacuation flight is expected to depart Johannesburg on Monday evening, subject to the approval of necessary permits and operational clearances.

He added that the inaugural flight is expected to airlift about 270 passengers back to Nigeria.

The evacuation programme forms part of the Federal Government’s response to renewed xenophobic tensions in South Africa and is aimed at assisting Nigerians who have voluntarily chosen to return home due to security concerns and fears arising from recent anti-immigrant protests.

Authorities say arrangements are being finalised to ensure the smooth and safe return of all eligible Nigerians who complete the screening process.