The Federal Government has announced that another batch of 88 Nigerians is expected to arrive in Lagos from South Africa today as part of ongoing efforts to assist citizens affected by growing anti-foreigner sentiments in the country.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the returnees would travel on South African Airways from Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the flight is scheduled to leave Johannesburg at 3:35 p.m. local time and is expected to arrive in Lagos at approximately 8:45 p.m.
The latest figure represents an increase from the 83 Nigerians initially announced for the return.
Private Individuals Sponsor Flight Tickets
The ministry disclosed that the latest repatriation was made possible through the intervention of private individuals who sponsored the air tickets for the returning Nigerians.
The Federal Government expressed appreciation to the sponsors, describing their contribution as an important humanitarian intervention.
The development comes after the government concluded an earlier voluntary repatriation programme through which nearly 1,490 Nigerians were brought back from South Africa amid concerns over Afrophobic attacks and rising anti-foreigner sentiments.
FG Reaffirms Commitment to Nigerians Abroad
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu, remained committed to protecting the welfare, safety and dignity of Nigerians living both within the country and abroad.
The ministry said its Citizen Diplomacy policy recognises Nigerians in the diaspora as valuable contributors to national development rather than a burden.
It added that the government would continue working to protect citizens and respond to consular emergencies wherever necessary.
Government Seeks Wider Support
The ministry also praised the individuals and philanthropists who provided financial assistance for the latest repatriation exercise.
According to the government, their intervention demonstrates the importance of cooperation between government and private citizens in responding to emergencies affecting Nigerians overseas.
The ministry urged businesses, corporate organisations, state governments and other Nigerians in the country and abroad to support similar humanitarian initiatives.
It said stronger cooperation across society would improve Nigeria’s ability to respond quickly and effectively whenever citizens face serious consular challenges abroad.
