The Nigerian government has concluded its emergency evacuation of citizens stranded in South Africa following a series of xenophobic attacks, with the final government-sponsored flight landing in Lagos on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), more than 1,500 Nigerians have been repatriated over the past weeks.
The evacuation operation, which began in late June, involved multiple flights from Johannesburg to Lagos and Abuja. NEMA spokesperson Manzo Ezekiel confirmed that the last flight carried 187 passengers, bringing the total number of returnees to 1,523. The returnees were received at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport and provided with immediate assistance, including transportation to their home states.
The attacks, which targeted foreign-owned businesses and properties in several South African cities, prompted the Nigerian government to issue a travel advisory and organize the repatriation. The South African government has condemned the violence and pledged to investigate the incidents, while Nigerian officials have called for stronger bilateral cooperation to protect citizens abroad.
Returnees have reported losing homes and livelihoods, with many expressing relief at being back in Nigeria. The government has promised support for reintegration, including skills training and small business loans. However, some returnees have criticized the slow response and lack of compensation for lost assets.
This marks the largest evacuation of Nigerians from South Africa since similar incidents in 2019, when over 600 citizens were repatriated. Both governments have reaffirmed their commitment to addressing the root causes of xenophobia and improving diplomatic relations.
