Nigerians fleeing xenophobic violence in South Africa will touch down in Lagos on Thursday morning. An Air Peace aircraft carrying the first batch of evacuees is scheduled to land at Murtala Muhammed International Airport around 5:00 a.m.
The plane departs Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo International Airport on Wednesday night.
Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Foreign Affairs Ministry, confirmed the details on Tuesday.
About 270 Nigerians are expected in this initial wave of returnees. However, that number could shift as final clearances are processed.
Abuja has fully funded the evacuation operation. Government officials will be stationed at the airport to handle documentation, screening, and reunification with families.
More than 1,000 Nigerians participated in screening back in South Africa. Many more have since expressed interest in leaving, according to officials.
The flight was originally meant to depart Monday. Unforeseen logistical hurdles forced a two-day delay, the ministry explained.
Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the Foreign Affairs Minister, said extra time was needed for documentation and screening in coordination with South African counterparts. She noted the rising tide of evacuation requests as conditions worsen.
Nigeria's High Commission in Pretoria worked with South African authorities to secure waivers for certain individuals. Some evacuees had immigration-related issues that required resolution.
The repatriation effort is being overseen by multiple agencies. The Foreign Affairs Ministry is working alongside the National Emergency Management Agency and other institutions.
Recent attacks targeting foreigners have sparked panic across South Africa. Nigerian communities there have grown increasingly concerned about their safety.
Citizens wanting to leave approached the government voluntarily. No one is being forced to return, authorities stressed.
Abuja has pledged to protect Nigerians remaining in South Africa. Diplomats continue engaging with Pretoria to resolve the security situation.
The government assured its citizens it remains committed to their welfare. Both evacuation and diplomatic channels are being pursued simultaneously.
Families in Nigeria have been waiting anxiously for news of their relatives. Thursday's arrival marks a significant step in the relief operation.
Registration and profiling will commence immediately upon landing. Support services have been arranged for the returning nationals.
