The Federal Government has begun arrangements to evacuate Nigerians from South Africa, with at least 130 citizens already registered for voluntary repatriation flights following rising anti-foreigner tensions.
The move comes amid renewed protests and xenophobic rhetoric in parts of the country, particularly in Pretoria and Johannesburg, where demonstrators have blamed migrants for economic hardship, unemployment and insecurity.
In a statement on Sunday, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said the protection of Nigerians abroad remains a top priority for the government.
“The President has reiterated that the priority at this time remains the safety of our citizens.
Consequently, arrangements are currently underway to collate details of Nigerians in South Africa for voluntary repatriation flights for those seeking assistance to return home.
“So far, 130 applicants have duly registered for the exercise with our mission in South Africa, but this figure is expected to rise.
”Nigerian associations in South Africa are also assisting our mission in this regard,” she said.
The minister noted growing anxiety in recent weeks over anti-foreigner demonstrations, some of which have reportedly targeted Nigerians in specific areas.
“There is heightened anxiety over the series of anti-foreigner protests.
”The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has expressed grave concern on this situation and has called for more effective control of the situation by relevant host security services,” she added.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu confirmed that two Nigerians died in separate incidents allegedly involving security personnel.
According to her, Amamiro Emmanuel died on April 25 after sustaining injuries reportedly inflicted by members of the South African National Defence Force in Port Elizabeth.
She also disclosed that Nnaemeka Andrew was found dead at the Pretoria Central Mortuary on April 20, following an alleged encounter with the Tshwane Metro Police.
“This is utterly condemnable and unacceptable. The Nigeria High Commission is closely following investigations into these unfortunate incidents and Nigeria demands justice be done in these cases,” she said.
The minister revealed that another round of demonstrations is expected between May 4 and 8, prompting President Bola Tinubu to order close monitoring of the situation.
Nigeria has also summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner over the developments, while diplomatic missions continue to engage local authorities to reduce risks to citizens.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed Nigeria’s historical support for South Africa’s liberation struggle, warning that Nigerian lives and businesses must not be endangered.
“We remain committed to working with South Africa to explore ways to put an end to this xenophobic pattern,” she said, adding that both countries recently signed a memorandum of understanding on early warning mechanisms to protect their citizens.
