KEY POINTS

• The Federal Government has commenced the evacuation of 271 Nigerians from South Africa aboard an Air Peace flight.

• The evacuation follows security concerns sparked by threats from anti-immigration groups targeting undocumented foreign nationals ahead of a June 30 deadline.

• South African authorities have condemned the threats and deployed additional police and military personnel, while Nigeria is facilitating the voluntary return of its citizens.

The Federal Government has resumed the evacuation of Nigerian citizens from South Africa, with 271 nationals expected to be flown back home as concerns mount over security threats linked to anti-immigration groups in the country.

The evacuation exercise is scheduled to begin today, with Air Peace deploying an aircraft to Johannesburg to transport Nigerians who have chosen to return home voluntarily.

The spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, confirmed the operation, stating that the Air Peace flight will depart Nigeria at 3:00 p.m. on Monday for Johannesburg.

According to him, the aircraft is expected to leave South Africa at midnight and arrive in Nigeria on Tuesday morning with the evacuees.

The latest evacuation comes amid growing anxiety following an ultimatum reportedly issued by anti-immigration vigilante groups, demanding that undocumented foreign nationals, particularly Black African migrants, leave South Africa before June 30, 2026.

The threats have heightened fears of possible xenophobic attacks and prompted several African countries, including Nigeria, to begin making arrangements to evacuate willing citizens from South Africa.

Although South African authorities have publicly condemned the threats and reassured residents of their commitment to maintaining peace, the government has strengthened security by deploying additional police officers and military personnel across parts of the country.

The increased security presence is aimed at preventing violence and ensuring the protection of both citizens and foreign nationals living in South Africa.

Confirming the evacuation, Ebienfa stated that Nigeria was resuming the exercise as part of efforts to safeguard its citizens in light of the evolving security situation.

The Federal Government said the evacuation is intended for Nigerians who voluntarily indicated their desire to return home due to concerns over their safety.

The exercise underscores Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad during periods of heightened security risks and uncertainty.

The evacuation also comes against the backdrop of renewed concerns over xenophobic tensions in South Africa, where previous attacks on foreign nationals have resulted in deaths, injuries, and destruction of property over the years.

Nigerian authorities have continued to monitor the situation closely while working with relevant stakeholders to ensure the safe return of affected citizens.