The Federal Government has assured Nigerians living in South Africa that anyone willing to return home will be evacuated before the June 30 deadline issued by anti-migrant groups in the country.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed that President Bola Tinubu has directed that no Nigerian who voluntarily chooses to return should be left behind.
According to the minister, about 1,000 Nigerians have already indicated interest in coming back home amid growing concerns over attacks and hostility toward foreigners in South Africa.
The first batch of 258 returnees arrived in Lagos last week, while additional flights are expected in the coming days.
“No Nigerian willing to return home will be abandoned,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu assured.
She explained that the Nigerian government is actively engaging South African authorities through diplomatic channels to address the situation and protect affected citizens.
The minister expressed concern over reports that some Nigerians, including those married to South Africans and raising families in the country, are being targeted.
“When your citizens are being harassed, it becomes a serious concern,” she said.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also noted that many South African companies operate freely in Nigeria, arguing that Nigerians deserve similar treatment abroad.
She warned that continued xenophobic attacks could damage South Africa’s international reputation and undermine the Pan-African ideals championed by former President Nelson Mandela.
“South Africa has been stained with the stigma of being a xenophobic country,” she stated.
The minister further revealed that a memorandum of understanding signed by Nigeria and South Africa last year to strengthen conflict prevention and protect citizens has yet to be fully implemented.
Despite the challenges, she reiterated that the Federal Government remains committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of Nigerians affected by the situation.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Statement by Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu.
