The Federal Government has assured that no Nigerian willing to return from South Africa will be left behind, as evacuation efforts intensify amid growing concerns over attacks and discrimination against migrants.
The Federal Government has assured Nigerians in South Africa that no citizen who has indicated a willingness to return home will be left behind as evacuation efforts continue amid growing concerns over attacks and discrimination targeting migrants.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, gave the assurance while providing an update on the government’s response to the situation affecting Nigerians in South Africa.
According to the minister, approximately 1,000 Nigerians have so far registered for evacuation ahead of the June 30 deadline set for those seeking to return home.
She disclosed that the first batch of 258 Nigerian nationals had already been airlifted by the Federal Government from South Africa.
The returnees were received at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, on behalf of the Federal Government.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains committed to protecting Nigerians abroad and ensuring that citizens facing danger or hardship receive appropriate support.
She explained that the government’s decision to facilitate the evacuation aligns with its citizen-centred diplomacy policy, which prioritises the welfare and protection of Nigerians worldwide.
According to the minister, the President has directed that Nigerians exposed to threats and insecurity in South Africa who voluntarily wish to return should be assisted before the evacuation deadline.
She noted that many of the affected individuals have lived in South Africa for years, with some married to South African citizens and raising families there.
The minister expressed concern over reports that migrants have been subjected to harassment, intimidation, and discrimination by anti-migrant groups operating in parts of South Africa.
She stated that the situation has raised serious concerns for the Nigerian government, particularly given the longstanding contributions of Nigerians to the South African economy and society.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also highlighted the significant presence of South African businesses in Nigeria, noting that more than 120 South African companies currently operate across various sectors of the Nigerian economy.
She cited major brands including MTN Nigeria, MultiChoice Nigeria, Stanbic IBTC Bank, and Protea Hotels Nigeria as examples of South African investments operating freely in Nigeria.
While condemning attacks against migrants, the minister said any response by Nigeria would be pursued through lawful and diplomatic channels rather than retaliatory actions.
She explained that the Federal Government is actively engaging South African authorities through diplomatic mechanisms while monitoring developments closely.
According to her, the National Assembly also has a constitutional role to play in determining Nigeria’s broader response should diplomatic efforts fail to address concerns over the treatment of Nigerians and other African migrants.
The minister further criticised what she described as South Africa’s failure to adequately protect migrants, warning that the situation risks damaging the country’s international reputation.
She referenced the legacy of Nelson Mandela, arguing that the current climate undermines the Pan-African ideals long associated with South Africa.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said reports of xenophobic incidents have already affected international perceptions of the country, with some events, conferences, and engagements reportedly being cancelled amid growing concerns.
The minister also revealed that South African authorities had declined to proceed with a previously negotiated Memorandum of Understanding on an early warning mechanism signed with Nigeria in October 2025.
According to her, the agreement was designed to protect the lives and property of both Nigerians and South Africans during periods of tension and conflict.
She said South African officials later raised concerns about procedural requirements and the authority of some signatories, preventing the agreement from taking effect.
Beyond Nigeria, several African countries including Ghana, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique have also begun evacuating citizens affected by the unrest.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safe return of all Nigerians who choose to leave South Africa while continuing diplomatic efforts aimed at protecting those who remain in the country.
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