The Federal Government has begun arrangements to bring back Nigerians from South Africa following fresh xenophobic attacks in the country.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday. She said President Bola Tinubu has approved evacuation flights for Nigerians who are willing to return home.
According to the minister, efforts are ongoing to compile details of affected citizens. She revealed that about 130 Nigerians have already registered with Nigeria’s mission in South Africa. She added that the figure may increase as community groups assist with the registration process.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu described the situation as a “repetitive wave”. She alleged that some anti-foreigner groups often take advantage of the crisis for political gains.
“Nigerian lives and businesses in South Africa must not continue to be put at risk,” she said.
She noted that the Nigerian government is in contact with South African authorities over the development. She added that both countries recently signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen early warning systems and protect citizens during periods of tension.
The minister urged leaders of Nigerian associations in South Africa to quickly compile lists of those who wish to return but cannot afford travel costs.
She said the Nigerian consulate is working with the high commission in Pretoria to gather the necessary information for a special evacuation flight.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu explained that interested persons must submit personal details. These include passport photograph, full name, passport biodata page, state of origin, local government area, place of birth, current address, and contact details. Applicants are also expected to provide proof of the circumstances that qualify them for evacuation.
She added that registration for the exercise will be free.
There have been repeated reports of xenophobic attacks in South Africa. Foreign nationals, including Nigerians and Ghanaians, have been affected.
On Saturday, the Federal Government summoned Bobby Moroe, the acting South African High Commissioner to Nigeria, over the incidents.
