The Nigerian government has confirmed it will deploy aircraft to evacuate its citizens from South Africa following a surge in xenophobic attacks that have targeted foreigners across multiple South African cities. Officials announced the evacuation plan had reached its final stages, with screening of those seeking to return home now complete. The move comes as violence in South Africa entered its second week, leaving many Nigerians stranded and afraid to leave their homes.
Federal Government Confirms Evacuation Plan
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement confirming that aircraft would be sent to retrieve Nigerian nationals caught up in the violence. The government urged all citizens wishing to return to register with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria. Officials said the operation prioritised vulnerable individuals, including women, children, and those whose businesses had been destroyed. The High Commission set up emergency hotlines for Nigerians seeking assistance.
Local media reported that hundreds of Nigerians had already gathered at designated collection points in Johannesburg and Cape Town. The Nigerian Mission in South Africa coordinated closely with aviation authorities in Abuja to finalise departure schedules. Government sources indicated that at least two aircraft would be deployed initially, with additional flights arranged if demand exceeded capacity.
Screening Process Reaches Completion
Authorities confirmed that the screening of Nigerians applying for evacuation had concluded, with officials verifying identities and assessing who required immediate assistance. The process identified those with urgent medical needs and individuals who had lost shelter due to attacks on their properties. Consular staff worked around the clock to process applications, the Ministry stated. Priority was given to citizens who had suffered direct violence or whose homes had been burned.
Violence Spreads Across South African Cities
The xenophobic unrest first erupted in Gauteng province before spreading to Durban and Cape Town. Locals attacked foreign-owned shops, set fire to vehicles, and clashed with police attempting to restore order. At least seven people have died since the violence began, according to South African authorities. Nigerian business owners in Johannesburg's townships described watching their livelihoods disappear in hours as crowds looted and destroyed their premises.
In the township of Alexandra, north of Johannesburg, Nigerian traders recounted fleeing with nothing but the clothes on their backs. One shop owner told Reuters he had operated in the area for twelve years before last week's attacks forced him to abandon everything. South Africa's government declared a state of readiness but has struggled to contain the spread of violence to new areas.
Impact on Nigerian Communities
South Africa hosts one of Africa's largest diaspora communities, with estimates suggesting between 30,000 and 50,000 Nigerians reside in the country legally. Many more live and work there without formal documentation. The current crisis has exposed the precarity of this population, with community leaders reporting widespread fear among those who cannot afford to leave. Nigerian student groups in Cape Town said their members were afraid to attend classes or venture to campus.
The violence has also strained diplomatic relations between Abuja and Pretoria. Nigeria recalled its High Commissioner for consultations and summoned the South African Charge d'Affaires to protest the attacks. South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation, calling the violence "unacceptable" and promising to protect all foreign nationals. However, Nigerian citizens on the ground say official assurances have done little to calm their fears.
Economic Fallout for Affected Nigerians
For many Nigerians in South Africa, the attacks have wiped out years of accumulated savings and business investment. Traders who built shops from scratch reported losing everything in a matter of days. The Nigerian diaspora community contributes significantly to bilateral trade, with many operating import-export businesses that serve both countries. Community leaders fear the violence will dealt a lasting blow to these economic ties. Some evacuees will return to Nigeria with no assets, no employment, and no clear path forward.
What Happens Next
The first evacuation flights are expected to depart from Johannesburg's Oliver Tambo International Airport within the coming days. The Federal Government has instructed the National Emergency Management Agency to prepare reception facilities in Lagos and Abuja for returning citizens. Those arriving will receive immediate humanitarian assistance, including temporary accommodation and medical support. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it would continue working with South African authorities to ensure the safety of Nigerians who choose to remain.
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Impact on Nigerian Communities South Africa hosts one of Africa's largest diaspora communities, with estimates suggesting between 30,000 and 50,000 Nigerians reside in the country legally. The Nigerian diaspora community contributes significantly to bilateral trade, with many operating import-export businesses that serve both countries.
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