The Federal Government has successfully completed another phase of its emergency evacuation exercise from South Africa, as the fourth batch of Nigerians affected by the recent wave of xenophobic attacks arrived safely in Lagos on Thursday evening.
The latest group of returnees arrived aboard an Air Peace aircraft carrying more than 180 Nigerians who had earlier been scheduled to return on Wednesday but were delayed due to a technical issue involving the aircraft.
The successful arrival of the flight marks another milestone in the ongoing government-led repatriation programme aimed at bringing home Nigerians who chose to leave South Africa following the recent attacks targeting foreign nationals.
With the arrival of the fourth batch, the total number of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa has now reached approximately 1,000.
The evacuation exercise is being coordinated by the Federal Government in collaboration with Air Peace and other relevant agencies as part of efforts to ensure the safe return of citizens affected by the violence.
The repatriation follows renewed xenophobic attacks in parts of South Africa, which prompted many Nigerians to seek assistance from the Nigerian government to return home.
Government officials have continued to reassure affected citizens of their commitment to providing the necessary support throughout the evacuation process.
Although the latest flight experienced a one-day delay because of a technical challenge, the passengers eventually departed safely and landed in Lagos without further incident.
The Federal Government has maintained that the welfare and safety of Nigerians abroad remain a priority, while efforts continue to provide assistance to those still willing to return home.
The evacuation programme has continued in phases since the outbreak of the attacks, with each batch bringing more Nigerians back to the country.
Authorities have also reiterated calls for stronger diplomatic engagement to address the recurring incidents of xenophobic violence against Nigerians and other African nationals living in South Africa.
The latest successful operation further demonstrates the government’s determination to ensure that Nigerians affected by the crisis are safely reunited with their families and provided with necessary support upon arrival.
