Headline:
130 Nigerians Seek Voluntary Repatriation from South Africa Amid Xenophobic Violence
Subheading:
Nigerian government confirms self-funded return process as tensions escalate against African immigrants
More than 130 Nigerians in South Africa have registered to return home voluntarily following a surge in xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals, Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry confirmed Monday.
The repatriation process, however, will be self-funded, with returnees expected to cover their own travel expenses. The Nigerian government will only facilitate coordination, not provide financial assistance or state-sponsored flights.
Escalating Tensions Prompt Exodus
The decision comes after weeks of violent protests in parts of South Africa, where anti-immigrant sentiment has led to attacks on African foreign nationals, including Nigerians. At least two Nigerian citizens were killed last month in separate incidents involving South African security forces.
One victim, Ekpenyong Andrew, was arrested before his body was later found in Pretoria. Another, Amaramiro Emmanuel, died from injuries sustained during an assault by security personnel.
Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, told reporters that the voluntary return initiative primarily targets those who feel unsafe or fear arrest due to immigration violations.
Who Wants to Leave?
Ebienfa explained that two distinct groups have expressed interest in repatriation:
- Those fearing for their safety – Nigerians with valid documents who no longer feel secure amid rising xenophobia.
- Undocumented migrants avoiding arrest – Individuals with expired visas or residency permits seeking to avoid detention by South African authorities.
“Actualization depends on their ability to purchase flight tickets,” Ebienfa said. “The government will not provide an aircraft but may intervene if tensions worsen.”
Diplomatic Pressure Mounts
Nigeria has formally condemned the violence, with Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu summoning South Africa’s acting high commissioner, Lesoli Machele, to demand stronger protections for Nigerian citizens.
During a closed-door meeting, Nigerian officials urged South Africa to take “proactive measures” to curb xenophobic attacks and hold perpetrators accountable.
Past Repatriation Efforts
This isn’t the first time Nigeria has organized mass evacuations from South Africa. In 2019, private airline Air Peace, led by CEO Allen Onyema, sponsored free flights for hundreds of Nigerians fleeing similar violence.
This time, however, the government has ruled out subsidized returns, leaving affected individuals to shoulder the cost.
What’s Next?
With 130 Nigerians already registered, the repatriation process is expected to proceed gradually as individuals secure funds for flights. The Nigerian High Commission in South Africa will oversee logistics, though no timeline has been set.
As tensions persist, many in Nigeria’s diaspora community remain anxious, weighing safety concerns against the financial burden of returning home.
— Reported by Nexio News
