First Batch Of Nigerians Fleeing South Africa Attacks Arrive Thursday

The first batch of Nigerians being repatriated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks is expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Thursday morning.

Naija News reports that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.

According to the ministry, the returnees will be conveyed aboard an Air Peace flight scheduled to depart O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday night.

The ministry said the aircraft is expected to arrive in Lagos at about 5 am on Thursday.

The repatriation exercise follows renewed concerns over attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.

The development prompted Nigerian authorities to facilitate the voluntary return of affected citizens willing to come back home.

The Federal Government had earlier assured Nigerians in South Africa of its commitment to their safety and welfare.

It also said it was working with relevant South African authorities to address the situation and protect Nigerian citizens.