Nigeria has begun evacuating its citizens from South Africa as anti-migrant sentiment intensifies. Officials in Abuja confirmed that flights carryi
Nigeria has begun evacuating its citizens from South Africa as anti-migrant sentiment intensifies.
Officials in Abuja confirmed that flights carrying returnees arrived this week, following reports of harassment, assaults, and looting of businesses owned by foreign nationals in parts of Johannesburg and Pretoria.
The government said the move was necessary to protect Nigerians amid rising hostility toward migrants.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that the evacuation was organised after numerous complaints from citizens who felt unsafe.
Civil society groups have welcomed the decision, urging authorities to provide reintegration support for those returning home, many of whom left behind jobs and livelihoods.
South Africa remains a major destination for Nigerian workers and traders, but officials stressed that the safety of nationals cannot be compromised.
The surge in anti-migrant sentiment has drawn condemnation from regional leaders and organisations, who warn that such unrest undermines African unity and economic cooperation.
Nigeria has called for stronger protection of migrants across the continent and urged dialogue to address the root causes of xenophobia.
For the evacuees, however, the immediate challenge is rebuilding their lives back home, with many expressing relief at escaping danger but uncertainty about their prospects.
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