Hundreds of Nigerians return to Lagos as the Federal Government begins phased evacuation efforts following attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa.
By Uche Ikebudu. Friday June 12, 2026
The evacuation of Nigerian citizens from South Africa gathered momentum on Wednesday as the first batch of returnees arrived in Nigeria following weeks of tension and attacks linked to xenophobic violence in parts of the southern African country. The returnees, who opted to leave South Africa after a wave of anti-foreigner attacks and growing concerns over their safety, landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos aboard a chartered flight arranged by the Nigerian government.Government officials received the evacuees on arrival and assured them of support as efforts continued to facilitate the return of other Nigerians who had registered for evacuation.
The evacuation exercise was initiated after renewed attacks on foreign nationals and businesses in several South African communities sparked outrage across Africa and raised concerns about the safety of Nigerians living in the country. The Nigerian government subsequently announced plans to evacuate citizens willing to return home.The first batch of returnees comprised hundreds of Nigerians, including women and children, who had expressed a desire to leave South Africa following the unrest. Many of them arrived with their personal belongings and were welcomed by government representatives and emergency response officials.Speaking at the airport, government officials said the evacuation was part of measures approved to ensure the safety and welfare of Nigerians affected by the violence. They noted that arrangements had been made to provide immediate assistance and support to the returnees upon arrival.Several of the returnees recounted their experiences in South Africa, describing an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty that followed the attacks. Some said businesses owned by Nigerians and other foreign nationals had been targeted, while others expressed concerns about their security and future prospects.The evacuation followed diplomatic engagements between Nigerian and South African authorities after reports of attacks on foreign-owned shops and businesses emerged. The incidents triggered reactions from the Nigerian government, civil society groups and members of the public, who called for stronger measures to protect Nigerians residing in South Africa.
Prior to the commencement of the evacuation exercise, Nigerian authorities had opened registration channels for citizens interested in returning home. Hundreds of Nigerians subsequently enrolled for the programme, citing security concerns and the impact of the unrest on their livelihoods.
Officials overseeing the operation said additional flights would be arranged to bring back more Nigerians who had indicated their willingness to return. They added that the evacuation process would continue in phases until all registered citizens who wished to leave South Africa had been accommodated.
The arrival of the first batch marked a significant step in the government’s response to the crisis and underscored ongoing efforts to assist citizens affected by the violence.At the airport, emergency management agencies and humanitarian organisations were deployed to assist the returnees. Medical personnel were also placed on standby to attend to any immediate health concerns, while arrangements were made for temporary accommodation and transportation where necessary.
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Some of the returnees expressed relief at being back in Nigeria, saying the decision to leave South Africa was motivated by concerns for their safety and that of their families. Others said they hoped to rebuild their lives and explore new opportunities at home.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to the welfare of Nigerians abroad and pledged to continue engaging relevant authorities on issues affecting citizens in foreign countries. Officials also urged Nigerians living outside the country to remain law-abiding and to make use of available diplomatic channels whenever challenges arise.
As preparations continue for subsequent evacuation flights, authorities said they were working closely with relevant agencies and stakeholders to ensure a smooth and orderly process.
The arrival of the first group of evacuees in Lagos marked the beginning of what officials described as a coordinated effort to return Nigerians affected by the unrest and provide them with the necessary support as they reintegrate into life back home.
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