The first batch of Nigerian citizens evacuated from South Africa arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Thursday morning, fleeing weeks of xenophobic attacks that targeted foreign-owned businesses in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.
According to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), about 250 evacuees, including women, children, the elderly, and those with medical conditions, were on board the flight arranged by the Federal Government.
“We are grateful to be home. Many of us lost everything — shops, homes, and livelihoods. Some of our people were attacked simply because they are Nigerian,” a weeping evacuee told CDA News Nigeria upon arrival.
The Federal Government had earlier rescheduled the evacuation exercise to ensure proper documentation and clearance from South African authorities. Additional batches are expected in the coming days.
NiDCOM assured that all returnees would receive temporary accommodation, medical screening, and reintegration support. The government also pledged to continue diplomatic engagement with South Africa to protect Nigerians who choose to remain.
The first batch of evacuees was received by officials from NiDCOM, NEMA, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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