The Federal Government of Nigeria has completed the fifth phase of its voluntary evacuation of Nigerians affected by xenophobic attacks and related security concerns in South Africa, bringing the total number of citizens airlifted home to 1,490, according to official statements.
The latest exercise, which concluded on July 14, 2026, involved 320 returnees who arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. The evacuation was coordinated by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian Mission in South Africa.
NiDCOM Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa confirmed that all returnees have undergone profiling and received stipends to facilitate reintegration. She noted that the voluntary evacuation program began in response to reports of xenophobic attacks against Nigerian nationals in South Africa, which escalated in 2025.
The returnees include families, students, and business owners who opted to leave due to safety concerns. The Nigerian government has urged citizens to remain calm and assured them of continued support for reintegration, including skills training and economic empowerment programs.
