By Paul Joseph
The Federal Government has postponed the planned evacuation of Nigerians stranded in South Africa following the recent surge in anti-foreigner attacks, citing logistical and administrative challenges.
The first phase of the emergency airlift, initially scheduled to commence on Monday, will now begin on Wednesday, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Spokesperson for the ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed the development in a statement on Monday, explaining that the delay was necessitated by operational issues encountered during preparations for the exercise.
Ebienfa disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had approved five evacuation flights to facilitate the safe return of affected Nigerians. The flights will be operated by Air Peace.
According to the ministry, the first aircraft is expected to transport about 270 Nigerians from Johannesburg on Wednesday evening, subject to the completion of diplomatic clearances and aviation landing approvals.
The postponement has also allowed authorities to extend the screening and documentation process for Nigerians seeking evacuation.
“I received confirmation from our Mission in Pretoria that the screening exercise of Nigerian nationals who have indicated interest to be evacuated back home has been extended to Wednesday,” Ebienfa said.
He added that more than 500 Nigerians had so far been screened and cleared for possible evacuation.
The government said the extension would enable more stranded citizens to complete the registration and verification process ahead of the evacuation exercise.
The planned repatriation follows growing concerns over the safety of foreign nationals amid renewed xenophobic tensions in South Africa.
Nigerian authorities have continued to monitor the situation while working with relevant stakeholders to ensure the safe return of affected citizens.
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