Nigeria: 271 Nigerians approved for emergency repatriation from South Africa

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Nigeria

 271 nationals for evacuation from South Africa on a third government-arranged repatriation flight, as xenophobic attacks and anti-foreigner protests continue to escalate across the country. 

The flight is scheduled to depart from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Friday, July 3, 2026. The announcement was made in a joint public notice issued by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg.

According to the notice signed by Nigeria’s Consul General in Johannesburg, Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, all approved passengers must report to the Nigeria High Commission in Pretoria by 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 2. 

From there, returnees will be moved to the airport in government-organized buses. The missions stressed that using the official transport is compulsory. 

“All those on the list are to assemble to depart for the Airport by buses organized by the Missions. This is to ensure safe passage and access to the special restricted area of the Airport, where our nationals will be processed for departure,” the statement said. 

Officials added that individuals who do not join the designated buses will not be allowed into the restricted processing area at OR Tambo. The measure, they said, is intended to protect passengers and streamline the special departure process

Returnees have been instructed to bring their clearance certificates issued after screening, along with all other documents submitted during the exercise. 

For those without valid passports, the missions said Emergency Travel Certificates, ETCs, will be issued free of charge at the airport. 

Baggage allowances were also outlined. Adults may check in two bags of up to 23 kilograms each, carry one cabin bag of up to seven kilograms, and bring one personal item such as a handbag or small backpack. Minors receive the same allowance, with the addition of a collapsible stroller, infant cot, or infant car seat.

The High Commission and Consulate urged Nigerians who are not on this flight to remain calm and law-abiding while awaiting further arrangements. 

“We continue to implore all our nationals to remain patient, calm, stay safe and be law-abiding, by staying away from crime and criminals, in order to uphold and protect the good name of our beloved country, Nigeria,” the statement read. 

The missions also reaffirmed their commitment to citizens’ welfare abroad: “Please rest assured that your government cares deeply about you, and the High Commission and the Consulate General will not relent in our duty to protect you and look out for your welfare at all times.”

The evacuation comes amid renewed anti-foreigner sentiment and sporadic attacks targeting African migrants in several South African cities. The unrest has prompted concern among Nigerian communities, many of whom have reported threats, property damage, and restricted movement. 

The Nigerian government has run multiple voluntary repatriation exercises in recent years for citizens who feel unsafe or wish to return home. This July 3 flight is the third in the current phase of that program.

In a statement by National Publicity Secretary Akindele Olunloyo, NUSA praised both the Federal Government and the diplomatic missions for their “humanitarian response to the plight of distressed Nigerians.” 

“NUSA sincerely appreciates the ongoing efforts of the Federal Government of Nigeria in smoothly assisting distressed Nigerians by organizing voluntary, ongoing flights back home,” Olunloyo said. 

The union also noted the missions’ support on the ground, including temporary shelter and food for Nigerians awaiting evacuation. “Their humanitarian support, providing shelter and food, shows a heartfelt commitment to helping displaced Nigerians in South Africa,” Olunloyo added.

However, NUSA said demand remains high. The union urged Abuja to expand the program, noting that more than 100 additional Nigerians have expressed willingness to return. 

“Given that xenophobic tensions continue to cause cycles of unrest and vigilantism, we kindly urge the Nigerian government to consider expanding the repatriation programme, as more than 100 Nigerians are eager to return to their communities in Nigeria and find safety and stability,” the statement said.

The 271 approved passengers will form the third group to leave under this arrangement. For many, the flight represents a chance to exit a volatile environment and return to family and community in Nigeria. 

For the government, the operation is both a logistical and diplomatic exercise, balancing safety, documentation, and coordination with South African authorities to secure access to the restricted airport zone. 

Officials have not announced dates for a fourth flight, but NUSA’s appeal suggests pressure will continue to grow if tensions persist. 

For now, the focus is on Friday’s departure. With buses, documents, and ETCs arranged, the missions say they are working to ensure the process is orderly and safe for all 271 Nigerians cleared to board.