The Federal Government has successfully brought back a fresh group of 105 distressed citizens from South Africa in the wake of continued xenophobic and Afrophobic hostility directed at foreign Africans. This latest arrival pushes the total number of repatriated citizens to 1,821 since organized returns commenced in June.
The group, which consists of 82 adults and 23 children, landed in Lagos aboard South African Airways Flight SA060 at approximately 8:30 pm on Thursday, September 24, 2026. They were met upon arrival by representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Emergency Management Agency, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, alongside other partner government organs.
Official details regarding the operation were released on Saturday through a formal statement issued by Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi.
According to the ministry, this mission marks the 13th consular transport arranged from South Africa since the ongoing effort started on June 10, 2026. Out of the 1,821 total returnees processed so far, 1,388 individuals were fully sponsored by the Federal Government.
Funding for 100 of the 105 individuals in this latest group was drawn from a $265,854 contribution provided by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), intended to cover one-way transit tickets for 500 stranded citizens. The remaining five passengers were sponsored by a private philanthropist.
diplomatic representatives continue to work alongside the leadership of the RCCG in South Africa, as well as other charitable entities and private citizens, to organize further return flights for those seeking passage.
“Nigeria’s diplomatic mission continues to engage with the leadership of the RCCG in South Africa and other philanthropic groups and individuals, as some other distressed Nigerians are currently undergoing preliminary clearance with our Consulate in Johannesburg and relevant South African authorities. They will be evacuated as soon as the process is finalized.”
Government officials conveyed gratitude to the RCCG, led by Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, for providing financial support toward the return initiative, while also acknowledging other civic partners involved in assisting citizens who wish to return home.
The ministry reaffirmed its deep concern over the recurring hostility faced by foreign nationals in the country.
“The Federal Government remains deeply concerned about persistent Xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against Nigerians and other Africans in South Africa.”
The statement highlighted that diplomatic channels will remain active to ensure local South African authorities cooperate in curbing anti-immigrant sentiment and upholding the protection and dignity of citizens living there.
“The Federal Government once again assures Nigerians in the diaspora that protecting their lives, rights, welfare, and dignity remains a priority, and that it will always deploy appropriate diplomatic and consular measures to assist them whenever circumstances warrant.”
Citizens based in South Africa have been advised to stay alert, respect local laws, and stay in contact with the High Commission in Pretoria or the Consulate General in Johannesburg for necessary support.
Safety Warning Issued by NUSA
In a related development, the Nigerian Union in South Africa (NUSA) has cautioned community members to remain vigilant and stay clear of prospective demonstration zones ahead of September 30 protests organized by the March and March group.
Community members were further advised to avoid confrontations and maintain updated, safely stored identification documents, visas, and permits.
This guidance was issued on Saturday in an official statement signed by NUSA President-General, Dr Smart Nwobi.
The March and March group designated September 30 for renewed nationwide demonstrations regarding undocumented foreign residents, following similar actions on June 30. This upcoming date has prompted further steps by diplomatic personnel to organize travel for those seeking voluntary departure.
Nwobi stressed the need for caution, particularly along routes marked for potential gatherings.
“NUSA urges all Nigerians and members of the Nigerian community in South Africa to remain calm, vigilant and safety-conscious.”
He advised community members to follow instructions from the South African Police Service and official security personnel, while keeping family members or trusted contacts updated regarding their whereabouts.
The union leadership also asked individuals to report any instances of harassment, physical threats, or suspicious activity to law enforcement agencies and union coordinators promptly.
Warning against retaliation, Nwobi cautioned that violent reactions would only heighten risks for families and the broader community.
“No Nigerian should take the law into their own hands. We must not respond to provocation with violence or engage in activities capable of putting ourselves, our families or the wider Nigerian community at risk.”
He pointed out the distinction between public concerns surrounding undocumented status and the legitimate presence of documented residents who obey local regulations.
NUSA confirmed ongoing communication with key authorities, including the Consul General’s Office, the High Commission in Pretoria, and relevant South African officials. These discussions are focused on encouraging alertness, securing lives and property, and finding peaceful resolutions to current friction.
Nwobi urged diplomatic officers to maintain active dialogues with local authorities to help prevent potential fallout.
“We urge the Nigerian Mission not to relent in its efforts to engage the South African authorities and utilise every diplomatic means available to prevent violence, protect Nigerian lives and property, and ensure that the rights of Nigerians living lawfully in South Africa are respected.”
Additionally, the union asked residents to refrain from circulating unverified media, voice notes, or messages that could provoke unneeded panic.
