The Federal Government has announced that all Nigerians in South Africa who have expressed interest in returning home amid renewed anti-migrant violence will be evacuated before June 30, 2026.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday through her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Magnus Eze.
She said about 1,000 Nigerians have already registered for evacuation, while the first batch of 258 returnees has been airlifted and received in Lagos.
FG warns of possible retaliatory measures
Mrs Odumegwu-Ojukwu also warned that Nigeria may review its economic and diplomatic engagement with South African companies operating in the country if the attacks continue.
She specifically mentioned major firms such as MTN Group, MultiChoice, and Stanbic IBTC Holdings, noting that Nigeria hosts over 120 South African businesses across various sectors.
“There are over 120 South African companies operating in Nigeria… and nobody is asking them to provide proof of identity,” she said.
Evacuation of Nigerians already underway
According to the minister, President Bola Tinubu has directed that Nigerians facing danger and harassment abroad be assisted to return home without delay.
She said many of those affected have lived in South Africa for years, with some married to South Africans and raising families there.
“Some of them are married to South Africans and have children who have known no other home but South Africa,” she said.
Rising Xenophobic violence raises alarm
The statement highlighted reports of renewed xenophobic attacks, including killings, looting of shops, and intimidation of foreign nationals by vigilante groups in several South African cities.
It also noted allegations that security agencies have failed to adequately protect migrants or prevent the violence.
Mrs Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed concern that even South African spouses and children of Nigerians are being affected by the crackdown.
Diplomatic tensions and failed agreement
The minister revealed that South African authorities have declined to implement a Memorandum of Understanding signed in October 2025, which was intended to activate an early warning mechanism for protecting citizens of both countries.
She said Pretoria later argued that the officials who signed the agreement lacked proper authority, delaying its implementation.
Nigeria explores further options
Mrs Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed that Nigeria remains open to diplomatic engagement but warned that further action could follow if the situation persists.
She said any retaliatory steps would comply with constitutional and legislative procedures, while the National Assembly would play a key role in shaping Nigeria’s response if talks fail.
The minister urged caution but maintained that the welfare and safety of Nigerians abroad remain a top priority for the Tinubu administration.
She described the attacks as a setback to Africa’s unity and referenced the legacy of former South African leader Nelson Mandela in condemning xenophobia.
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