Xenophobia: Fourth Evacuation Flight Lands in Lagos

​Following a surge in anti-immigrant protests and violence across South Africa, the Federal Government has successfully facilitated the return of another large group of its citizens. The fourth batch of Nigerian returnees—comprising 272 adults and 12 infants—arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Thursday night.

​The evacuation, conducted via an Air Peace flight, comes as part of an ongoing government effort to provide a safe passage for Nigerians residing in South Africa amid a climate of hostility that has plagued the nation since late June.

​A Response to Persistent Threats

​The current wave of anti-migrant sentiment has been largely driven by groups such as “Operation Dudula” and “March and March,” which issued an unofficial deadline of June 30, 2026, for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country. Since the expiration of this ultimatum, the situation has deteriorated, resulting in widespread looting, the targeting of foreign-owned businesses, and violent assaults that have claimed several lives.

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​Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, emphasized that the Nigerian government remains committed to the safety of its citizens. She confirmed that, following the success of previous operations, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed the extension of evacuation efforts beyond the initial June 30 deadline to assist those who feel at risk.

​Legislative Action and Diplomatic Pressure

​The Nigerian Senate has formally intervened in the crisis, mandating its Committee on Foreign Affairs to launch an urgent investigation into the attacks. Lawmakers have condemned what they termed an “uncultured and provocative trend of intolerance,” warning that Nigeria’s long-standing diplomatic patience should not be misconstrued as weakness.

​The government has also begun documenting the businesses and properties abandoned by returnees in South Africa, with the intention of engaging Pretoria to seek appropriate compensation for those who have lost their livelihoods.

​As the repatriation exercise continues, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged remaining Nigerians in South Africa to carefully assess their safety and utilize the government-sponsored flights if they perceive any threat to their lives or property.

​Nigeria evacuates citizens from South Africa after xenophobic attacks

​This video provides additional context and reporting on the ongoing repatriation efforts and the climate of fear prompting Nigerians to leave South Africa.