FG Approves Five Evacuation Flights for Nigerians Returning from South Africa

The Federal Government has approved five evacuation flights to bring home Nigerians who have indicated interest in returning from South Africa following renewed xenophobic tensions in the country.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this on Monday, announcing that the screening and verification exercise for Nigerians seeking voluntary repatriation has been extended until Wednesday, June 10, 2026, to allow more applicants complete the process.
According to the ministry, more than 500 Nigerians have so far been screened and cleared for evacuation.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said President Bola Tinubu approved five evacuation flights to be operated by Air Peace, with the first flight expected to depart Johannesburg on Monday evening.
He explained that the first flight is expected to airlift about 270 passengers, subject to the necessary permits and operational clearances being secured for the aircraft.
Ebienfa said the extension of the screening exercise was necessary as authorities continue to verify Nigerians who have applied for voluntary return to the country.
He stated that over 500 applicants had already been screened and cleared, while arrangements were being finalized for the commencement of the evacuation operation.
The spokesperson added that details of the flight’s departure and estimated arrival time in Lagos would be communicated after receiving updates from Nigeria’s High Commission in South Africa.
The screening exercise, which began on Thursday, was initially scheduled to end on Saturday before the extension was announced.
Earlier reports indicated that more than 1,000 Nigerians registered for voluntary repatriation amid growing concerns over renewed xenophobic attacks and tensions in South Africa.
Authorities said the verification process remains ongoing to ensure that all eligible Nigerians seeking evacuation are properly documented before their return to Nigeria.