By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal Government will evacuate 270 Nigerians from South Africa on Monday evening through an Air Peace flight approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The evacuation follows anti-foreigner protests in parts of South Africa that reportedly targeted Nigerian-owned businesses and properties. The operation will depart from Johannesburg after authorities secure the required permits and flight clearances. The government approved the exercise to protect affected Nigerians and assist those who wish to return home safely.
Over 500 Nigerians Cleared for Repatriation
News Point Nigeria reports that more than 500 Nigerians have completed screening and received clearance for repatriation.
The spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, confirmed the development on Monday. He revealed that President Tinubu approved five evacuation flights to bring interested Nigerians back home.
According to him, Nigeria’s Mission in Pretoria has extended its screening exercise until June 10, 2026. The extension will allow more Nigerians to register and complete the verification process.
Screening Exercise Extended Until June 10
Ebienfa said the mission decided to extend the screening exercise due to the growing number of Nigerians seeking evacuation.
“I just received confirmation from our Mission in Pretoria that the screening exercise of Nigerian nationals who have indicated interest to be evacuated back home has been extended till Wednesday, 10th June, 2026,” he said.
He added that more than 500 Nigerians have already been screened and cleared for evacuation.
Air Peace to Operate Five Evacuation Flights
The Federal Government selected Air Peace to operate the evacuation flights.
Ebienfa disclosed that the first flight would carry about 270 passengers from Johannesburg. However, the aircraft must first obtain all necessary permits and operational clearances.
“Mr. President has approved five evacuation flights that will be operated by Air Peace, and the first flight, which will airlift about 270 passengers, is expected to leave Johannesburg on Monday evening if the necessary permits and clearance are secured for the aircraft,” he stated.
Anti-Foreigner Protests Trigger Government Response
The evacuation plan follows a wave of protests in parts of South Africa. During the demonstrations, protesters reportedly demanded that foreign nationals leave the country.
The protests raised concerns within the Nigerian community. Reports also indicated that some Nigerian-owned businesses and shops suffered attacks during the unrest.
As a result, the Federal Government moved quickly to safeguard Nigerians and provide transportation for those willing to return home.
Nigerian Mission to Provide Further Updates
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s High Commission in South Africa will continue to provide updates on the evacuation process.
Officials say arrangements remain ongoing to ensure the smooth return of all Nigerians cleared for repatriation. Attention now focuses on the successful departure of the first flight and the subsequent evacuation operations approved by the President.
