Xenophobia: 130 Nigerians register for evacuation from South Africa

No fewer than 130 Nigerians have enlisted for voluntary evacuation flights from South Africa as the Nigerian government steps up efforts to protect its citizens amid growing tensions tied to anti-foreigner protests.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed in an update shared on her X account on Sunday that the evacuation plan is part of wider diplomatic and security measures being coordinated through Nigerian missions in South Africa.

She explained that the initiative follows directives from President Bola Tinubu, who has ordered closer monitoring of the situation and reinforced protection for Nigerians abroad.

According to her, the safety of citizens remains the government’s top priority, with arrangements ongoing to compile details of those seeking to return home through voluntary repatriation flights.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that 130 Nigerians have so far registered for the exercise, adding that the figure is expected to rise as more individuals indicate interest.

She also confirmed that the ministry has summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner over the unrest, while diplomatic engagements continue with authorities in the country.

The move comes against the backdrop of renewed anti-immigrant demonstrations in cities such as Pretoria and Johannesburg, which Nigerian officials say have heightened fears over the safety of their nationals.

The minister expressed concern over the wave of protests, noting that they have been accompanied by xenophobic rhetoric and growing anxiety among foreign residents, particularly Nigerians.

While South African leaders, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, have denounced the violence, disturbing visuals circulating online have sparked global concern.

She, however, said protests held between April 27 and 29, 2026, were largely peaceful, though heavily policed to prevent escalation. There were no confirmed reports of deaths or destruction of Nigerian-owned property during that period.

Despite this, the minister confirmed two separate incidents involving Nigerian nationals who died following alleged encounters with security personnel. She described both cases as deeply troubling and insisted that Nigeria is demanding justice, with the Nigerian High Commission closely monitoring ongoing investigations.
With another round of demonstrations expected between May 4 and 8, 2026, she said security and diplomatic coordination between both countries has been intensified.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu added that Nigeria’s diplomatic missions are working closely with South African authorities to ensure the safety of citizens while evacuation plans continue.

She also stressed the longstanding historical ties between both nations, recalling Nigeria’s role in South Africa’s liberation struggle, and urged that such shared history be recognised.

According to her, repeated outbreaks of xenophobic tension often linked to political cycles must be addressed decisively. She noted that Nigeria and South Africa recently signed a memorandum of understanding on early warning mechanisms aimed at protecting citizens of both countries, especially during periods of unrest.