First Batch of Evacuated Nigerians Arrives Lagos Safely from South Africa

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has welcomed the safe return of the first batch of 262 Nigerian citizens evacuated from South Africa.
The evacuation followed the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who approved and fully funded the Air Peace flight that brought the returnees home.

The evacuees were airlifted from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and arrived safely at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at approximately 10:15 a.m.
The returnees were received on arrival by the Honourable Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, and the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NIDCOM, Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
Speaking during the reception, Dr. Dabiri-Erewa commended President Tinubu for his prompt intervention and praised the coordinated efforts of all agencies involved in the evacuation process.
According to her, the government remains deeply concerned about the safety and welfare of Nigerians in South Africa and is committed to ensuring their protection.
“President Tinubu has demonstrated exemplary leadership by ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind in times of distress. We stand ready to support these returnees as they resettle and rebuild their lives,” she said.
The NIDCOM Chairman also announced several support measures for the returnees.
She disclosed that Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State has approved a grant of ₦1,000,000 for each indigene of the state among the evacuees.
In addition, MTN Nigeria donated ₦100,000 to each returnee, which will be paid directly into their bank accounts.
Dr. Dabiri-Erewa further stated that the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) would expedite the issuance of National Identity Numbers (NIN) for all evacuees.
She noted that the returnees are currently undergoing mandatory documentation and profiling at the airport.
NIDCOM also urged Nigerians living abroad to remain law-abiding while the Federal Government continues engagements with South African authorities to address the root causes of the tensions. :::