ABUJA — The Federal Government has expressed dissatisfaction with the treatment of Nigerians in South Africa amid renewed attacks, harassment, and intimidation targeting foreign nationals, while also announcing a slight delay in the planned evacuation of affected citizens.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, disclosed this while speaking with State House correspondents in Abuja on Monday. She said the government had activated a crisis response mechanism to assist Nigerians facing threats and insecurity in South Africa.
Ojukwu rejected claims by some South African authorities that most Nigerians affected by the crisis were undocumented migrants, insisting that many of them are law-abiding residents engaged in legitimate businesses.
She stated that Nigeria remains disappointed by the treatment of its citizens, particularly considering the country’s historical role in supporting South Africa’s struggle against apartheid and its quest for independence.
According to her, Nigeria committed significant resources and support to the South African liberation movement, including educational opportunities and political activism by Nigerians who championed the anti-apartheid cause.
The minister noted that many Nigerians view the current situation as unfair, especially as those targeted are predominantly black migrants.
On whether Nigeria could consider retaliatory measures against South African interests in the country, Ojukwu said such options remain under consideration and would require decisions at the highest levels of government and the legislature.
She clarified that the repatriation process was still on course despite delays, explaining that documentation and clearance procedures involving both Nigerian and South African authorities had to be completed before evacuation flights could commence.
According to her, President Bola Tinubu has directed that arrangements be concluded promptly to ensure stranded Nigerians are safely returned home.
Ojukwu revealed that the number of Nigerians seeking evacuation continues to rise as the situation worsens in several South African provinces. She explained that authorities from both countries are conducting screening exercises to verify and clear those eligible for repatriation.
She added that the government had established a crisis response unit within the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg and the Nigerian Mission in Pretoria to coordinate assistance and evacuation efforts.
The minister further stated that the Federal Government, in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant agencies, is developing plans to support and rehabilitate returnees upon their arrival in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the evacuation of 270 Nigerians initially scheduled for Monday has been postponed until Wednesday due to logistical challenges.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said the delay became necessary to allow authorities conclude final arrangements for the operation.
He disclosed that more than 1,000 Nigerians have already been screened and cleared for evacuation as part of the government’s response to the ongoing anti-migrant violence in South Africa.
Ebienfa added that details regarding departure and arrival schedules would be announced once all necessary approvals are secured.
He also explained that unlike previous evacuation exercises, the Federal Government will fully fund the operation and will not depend on private donations or assistance from philanthropists.
According to him, the government considers the protection and evacuation of Nigerians in distress a fundamental responsibility and is committed to ensuring their safe return.
The latest developments come after South African President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation, condemning attacks on foreign nationals while reaffirming his government’s commitment to tackling illegal migration.
Ramaphosa said authorities would strengthen efforts to enforce immigration laws and secure communities but urged citizens to avoid violence and seek peaceful solutions to the challenges facing the country.
He called on South Africans to reject fear, anger, and violence, emphasizing the need for peace and unity amid growing tensions surrounding migration.
FG Condemns Harassment of Nigerians in South Africa, Delays Evacuation Flight
