Nigeria To Repatriate Over 1,000 Nationals From South Africa As Xenophobic Tensions Rise

Nigeria to Repatriate Over 1,000 Nationals from South Africa as Xenophobic Tensions Rise The Federal Government has commenced plans to repatriate more than 1,000 Nigerian citizens from South Africa amid growing concerns over renewed xenophobic violence and rising anti-immigrant sentiments in the country. The development comes as West African nations intensify responses to reports of attacks targeting foreign nationals, with Ghana recently evacuating hundreds of its citizens from South Africa over similar security concerns. According to officials, the repatriation exercise is voluntary and aimed at assisting Nigerians who have expressed willingness to return home due to worsening conditions and fears for their safety. The move follows escalating protests and public demonstrations in parts of South Africa, where groups have increasingly accused foreign nationals of contributing to unemployment, crime, and economic hardship. The situation has triggered diplomatic concern across the continent, with Nigeria joining other African countries in closely monitoring developments and engaging South African authorities on the safety of its citizens. Officials say the repatriation process will be coordinated in phases, with screening and verification procedures already underway to confirm the identities and eligibility of those registered for evacuation. The Nigerian government had earlier indicated that over 130 citizens initially registered for voluntary return, but the figure has now risen significantly to more than 1,000 as anxiety grows within Nigerian communities in South Africa. Authorities have assured that necessary arrangements are being made to ensure safe and orderly evacuation flights, while diplomatic efforts continue to address the root causes of the tensions. Meanwhile, Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to protecting its citizens abroad and called for restraint, urging South African authorities to intensify efforts to curb xenophobic violence and ensure the safety of foreign residents. The latest development reflects widening regional concern over recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which have periodically strained diplomatic relations between Pretoria and several African nations.