Nigeria brings home 1,490 citizens from South Africa after xenophobic attacks
Supporters of the South African anti-immigrant group 'March and March' hold a demonstration, after an unofficial June 30 deadline set by anti-immigrant groups for undocumented migrants to leave the country had passed, in Umzimkhulu, South Africa, July 13, 2026. REUTERS/Rogan Ward
Audio By Vocalize
Nigeria has
completed the voluntary evacuation of
1,490 citizens from South Africa following
a series of xenophobic attacks,
its foreign ministry said on Thursday, with the latest flight bringing 305 returnees home from
Johannesburg.
Foreign ministry
spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa said a fifth evacuation flight carrying 305 returnees
and two government officials arrived in
Lagos on July 15.
The government
said the evacuation followed talks with South African authorities over
security concerns linked to xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals, including
Nigerians.
Nigeria has
condemned violence against its citizens in South Africa, including the deaths
of at least two nationals allegedly assaulted by security officials.
Despite strong
bilateral ties with South Africa, Nigeria's position remains clear: xenophobia,
racial intolerance and violence against its citizens are unacceptable, Kimiebi
said.
Join the Discussion
Share your perspective with the Citizen Digital community.
No comments yet
This discussion is waiting for your voice. Be the first to share your thoughts!