By Queen Madaki
The Federal Government has announced that the first batch of Nigerian nationals being evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks will arrive in Nigeria on Thursday morning.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the evacuees will depart Johannesburg’s Oliver Tambo International Airport on Wednesday night aboard an Air Peace flight and are expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, by 5:00 a.m. on Thursday.
The Bureau Journal reports that the evacuation exercise was initiated following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.
Government Fully Funds Evacuation Exercise
The Ministry disclosed that the Federal Government is bearing the full cost of the evacuation exercise, ensuring that affected Nigerians return home without any financial burden.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria has fully funded the evacuation exercise; consequently, all affected Nigerians will be repatriated at no cost to them,” the statement said.
The government noted that the intervention forms part of ongoing efforts to protect Nigerian citizens facing threats and insecurity abroad.
Support Arrangements Ready for Returnees
The Ministry stated that all necessary arrangements have been concluded to receive the evacuees upon arrival in Nigeria.
Relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies have been directed to coordinate reception activities and provide support services to the returnees.
According to the statement, the evacuees will undergo documentation and profiling procedures before receiving the necessary assistance.
“Upon arrival, the evacuees will undergo documentation and profiling procedures and will receive the appropriate assistance and support before being reunited with their families,” the Ministry stated.
FG Reaffirms Commitment to Nigerians Abroad
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to the welfare, safety and protection of Nigerians living outside the country.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured citizens that it would continue to monitor developments and take appropriate measures to safeguard Nigerians wherever they reside.
The Bureau Journal understands that the evacuation programme is part of broader efforts by the government to assist Nigerians affected by the recent wave of xenophobic violence in South Africa.
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