262 Nigerians Return From South Africa Amid Fresh Wave Of Xenophobic Violence

262 Nigerians Return from South Africa Amid Fresh Wave of Xenophobic Violence A total of 262 Nigerians are expected to arrive in the country on Thursday as the Federal Government continues evacuation efforts following renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa. The returnees form part of about 1,000 Nigerians who have reportedly expressed interest in voluntary repatriation after recent outbreaks of violence targeting foreign nationals in several parts of South Africa. Officials say the situation has raised significant safety concerns for Nigerians living in the country. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the 262 evacuees represent the first batch of Nigerians being brought back under an emergency repatriation arrangement coordinated by the Nigerian government in collaboration with South African authorities. Officials explained that emergency travel documents were issued through the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa to facilitate the return of citizens who had either been displaced or expressed fear for their safety amid ongoing unrest.The repatriation follows a spike in xenophobic attacks and anti-immigration protests in South Africa, where foreign nationals from several African countries have reportedly been targeted. The violence has prompted diplomatic concern across the continent, with multiple governments taking steps to protect or evacuate their citizens.South African authorities have stated that many of those being repatriated were found to be undocumented migrants and are expected to face immigration penalties, including possible re-entry restrictions. However, Nigerian officials maintain that the evacuations are driven primarily by security concerns linked to xenophobic violence. The situation reflects long-standing tensions surrounding immigration in South Africa, where periodic outbreaks of violence against foreign nationals have been fuelled by unemployment, economic pressure and public resentment over perceived competition for jobs. The Nigerian government has assured citizens that additional evacuation flights will be arranged for those who have registered for voluntary return, as security assessments continue in affected regions. Officials say efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe return of Nigerians while also engaging South African authorities to guarantee the protection of remaining citizens still residing in the country.