The Federal Government has successfully evacuated 1,490 Nigerians from South Africa following a recent surge in xenophobic violence.

The repatriation exercise, which commenced on June 11, concluded on Wednesday, with a total of seven batches of returnees transported back to Nigeria. While the government funded five flights, two additional batches were arranged under emergency measures.

According to a statement by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the evacuation was carried out through a coordinated effort involving multiple agencies. These included the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, the Consulate-General in Johannesburg, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), among others.

The government also commended Air Peace for its support and patriotism throughout the evacuation process.

While reaffirming Nigeria’s longstanding diplomatic relations with South Africa, the government condemned acts of xenophobia, racial intolerance and violence against foreign nationals. It emphasized continued diplomatic engagement with South African authorities to ensure the safety and peaceful coexistence of all residents.

Nigerians living abroad were advised to remain law-abiding, register with the nearest Nigerian mission and maintain regular contact to enable prompt assistance when necessary.