Nigeria Finalises Evacuation of Citizens from South Africa as First Airlift Set for Departure By Raymond Enoch
The Federal Government has intensified efforts to evacuate Nigerian nationals from the Republic of South Africa, with the first batch of evacuees expected to depart Johannesburg as early as Monday evening following the completion of screening and clearance procedures.
Information obtained by Paradigm News from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicates that preparations for the evacuation are at an advanced stage, with more than 500 Nigerians already screened and cleared for return to Nigeria.
According to the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the screening exercise being coordinated by Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in Pretoria has been extended until Wednesday, June 10, 2026, to accommodate additional Nigerians seeking repatriation.
“Over 500 persons have so far been screened and cleared,” Ebienfa disclosed, adding that the extension will ensure that all eligible Nigerians are processed before the evacuation operation is concluded.
The spokesperson revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved five evacuation flights for the exercise. The flights will be operated by Air Peace as part of the government’s efforts to facilitate the safe and orderly return of affected citizens.
The first flight is expected to transport approximately 270 passengers from Johannesburg to Nigeria, subject to the securing of the necessary aviation permits and operational clearances from relevant authorities.
Diplomatic sources told Paradigm News that officials of the Nigerian Mission in Pretoria and aviation authorities are working round the clock to finalize arrangements to ensure a smooth evacuation process.
While details regarding the exact departure time and estimated arrival in Lagos are yet to be released, officials say further updates will be provided by the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa once all clearances are obtained.
The evacuation underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare and protection of Nigerians abroad, particularly during periods requiring emergency consular assistance. It also highlights the growing role of Nigeria’s diplomatic missions in responding swiftly to the needs of citizens facing challenges outside the country.
Observers note that the operation is one of the largest recent repatriation exercises involving Nigerians in Southern Africa and reflects ongoing collaboration between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aviation authorities, and diplomatic missions to safeguard the interests of Nigerians overseas.
As the first flight prepares for takeoff, hundreds of Nigerians awaiting return home are expected to benefit from the remaining four evacuation flights approved by the Federal Government.
Further details are expected in the coming days as the evacuation exercise progresses.
