The Federal Government has begun arrangements to evacuate Nigerians from South Africa following a fresh wave of xenophobic tensions and anti-foreigner protests in parts of the country.
At least 130 Nigerians have so far registered for voluntary repatriation, according to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who disclosed the development in a statement shared on her X handle on Sunday.
She said the safety of Nigerians abroad remains a top priority for President Bola Tinubu, noting that the government is working with its mission in South Africa to compile details of citizens willing to return home.
“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,” she said.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu added that Nigerian associations in South Africa are supporting the registration process, with the number of applicants expected to rise.
The evacuation plan follows renewed protests and incidents of xenophobic rhetoric in major cities such as Pretoria and Johannesburg, where demonstrators have blamed undocumented migrants for unemployment, economic hardship, and insecurity.
She noted that anxiety has grown among Nigerians in recent weeks due to the protests, some of which have reportedly targeted foreign nationals.
“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 by relevant host security services,” the minister said.
The minister also confirmed the deaths of two Nigerian nationals in separate incidents involving security personnel.
According to her, Amamiro Emmanuel died on April 25 after allegedly being beaten by members of the South African National Defence Force in Port Elizabeth, while Nnaemeka Andrew was reported dead following an encounter with the Tshwane Metro Police. His body was later discovered at the Pretoria Central Mortuary on April 20.
“This is utterly condemnable and unacceptable. The Nigeria High Commission is closely monitoring investigations into these unfortunate incidents, and Nigeria demands justice be done,” she stated.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu further disclosed that another round of demonstrations is expected between May 4 and 8, prompting President Tinubu to order close monitoring of the situation. Nigeria has also summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner over the development.
She added that Nigerian diplomatic missions remain in constant engagement with South African authorities to minimise risks to citizens.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s longstanding ties with South Africa, the minister stressed that Nigerian lives and businesses must be protected, noting that both countries recently signed a memorandum of understanding on early warning mechanisms to safeguard their citizens.
“We remain committed to working with South Africa to explore ways to put an end to this xenophobic pattern,” she said.