…RCCG funds return of 432 Nigerians as total number evacuated rises to 2,151
By Gloria Ikibah 
The Federal Government has evacuated another 114 distressed Nigerians from South Africa amid concerns over xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks, bringing the total number of citizens returned to Nigeria under the ongoing exercise to 2,151.
The spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday, stating that the latest batch arrived in Lagos at approximately 8.30 pm on Thursday, 22 October 2026, aboard South African Airways Flight SA060.
The returnees comprised 57 men, 23 women and 34 children. They were received at the airport by officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and other relevant Federal Government agencies.
The ministry said the returnees’ one-way tickets were fully funded through a $265,854 donation by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) to support the evacuation of 500 distressed Nigerians from South Africa.
With the latest arrivals, the church has funded the return of 432 Nigerians under the exercise.
The Federal Government expressed appreciation to the RCCG, led by Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, for its financial support towards the humanitarian operation.
According to the ministry, the latest evacuation was the 16th consular evacuation since the exercise began on 10 June 2026.
Of the 2,151 Nigerians evacuated so far, the Federal Government fully funded the return of 1,388, while the RCCG has financed the evacuation of 432. The ministry’s statement did not specify the funding arrangements for the remaining returnees.
The government reiterated its condemnation of attacks against foreign nationals in South Africa, calling on the country’s authorities to take decisive action to protect residents regardless of nationality.
“The Federal Government reiterates its unequivocal condemnation of all forms of Xenophobic and Afrophobic hostilities directed at foreign nationals, including Nigerians, in South Africa,” the statement said.
It added that the government was urging the relevant South African authorities to ensure that those responsible for violence against foreign nationals were held accountable.
The ministry said Nigeria would continue engaging relevant stakeholders, including South African authorities, to address xenophobia and Afrophobia and promote the safety and welfare of Nigerians living in the country.
It also advised Nigerians in South Africa to obey local laws, remain vigilant and prioritise their personal safety.
“They are also urged to maintain regular contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg for consular assistance whenever necessary,” it added.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad and providing consular assistance when required.
