Xenophobia: Nigerian Govt to Evacuate 83 More Nigerians From South Africa Wednesday

The Federal Government has announced plans to evacuate another 83 Nigerians from South Africa on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, amid concerns over Afrophobic attacks and rising anti-foreigner sentiments.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.

According to the ministry, the returnees will depart Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg at about 3:35 p.m. local time aboard a South African Airways flight and are expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos around 8:45 p.m.

The ministry said the latest evacuation was made possible through the intervention of private individuals who sponsored the returnees’ air tickets.

It expressed appreciation to the sponsors, describing their support as an example of the “whole-of-society approach” being encouraged by the government to assist Nigerians facing difficulties abroad.

The latest repatriation follows the completion of the Federal Government’s voluntary evacuation programme, through which nearly 1,490 Nigerians were reportedly brought back from South Africa amid concerns over attacks, discrimination and hostility toward foreign nationals.

The ministry reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to protecting the welfare, dignity and interests of Nigerians both within the country and abroad.

It said the government’s Citizen Diplomacy policy views Nigerians living overseas as important contributors to national development rather than a burden.

The ministry also urged the organised private sector, corporate organisations, state governments, philanthropists and Nigerians at home and abroad to support initiatives aimed at assisting citizens facing emergencies outside the country.

According to the ministry, stronger collaboration between government and private stakeholders would improve Nigeria’s capacity to respond to consular emergencies and provide assistance to citizens in distress.

The government also said it would continue diplomatic engagements with South Africa to address the underlying causes of Afrophobia and prevent further violence and discrimination against Nigerians and other Africans.

The ministry stressed that perpetrators of violence against Nigerians should be held accountable, while urging host countries to strengthen measures that protect foreign nationals.

It commended the private sponsors who funded the latest evacuation and encouraged other stakeholders to contribute to efforts aimed at protecting Nigerians living and working abroad.