By Gloria Ikibah
The Federal Government has commenced the evacuation of Nigerian nationals affected by the recent wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, with the first group of returnees expected to arrive in Lagos on Thursday morning.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, the government confirmed that the initial batch of evacuees will continue depart Johannesburg’s Oliver Tambo International Airport on Wednesday night aboard an Air Peace flight. 
According to the Ministry, the aircraft is scheduled to land at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at approximately 5:00 a.m. on Thursday.
Announcing the operation, the Ministry stated:
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform that the first batch of Nigerian nationals that will be evacuated from the Republic of South Africa due to Xenophobic attacks will depart the Oliver Thambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday night, and the expected time of arrival at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos is 5.00am on Thursday morning.”
The Ministry disclosed that the evacuation exercise is being carried out by Air Peace Airlines and fully financed by the Federal Government, ensuring that affected Nigerians are returned home without any financial burden.
“The evacuation operation will be undertaken by Air Peace Airlines. The Federal Government of Nigeria has fully funded the evacuation exercise; consequently, all affected Nigerians will be repatriated at no cost to them”, he stated.
Authorities also assured Nigerians that adequate arrangements have been made to receive and support the returnees upon arrival.
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The Ministry explained that relevant government agencies have put measures in place to ensure a smooth reintegration process for those being evacuated.
“The Ministry further wishes to assure the public that the Federal Government, through relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, has put in place the necessary reception and support arrangements for the returnees.”
It added that the evacuees would undergo documentation and profiling procedures before receiving assistance and being reunited with their families.
“Upon arrival, the evacuees will undergo documentation and profiling procedures and will receive the appropriate assistance and support before being reunited with their families”, it added.
The evacuation follows growing concerns over attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, prompting calls for the protection of Nigerians living and working in the country.
The Federal Government has repeatedly stated its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Nigerians abroad and has continued to engage South African authorities over the safety of its citizens.
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