Nigeria Repatriates 67 Citizens From South Africa
The Nigerian government and private sponsors repatriated 67 citizens from South Africa on August 26 following reports of xenophobic attacks and anti-foreigner discrimination.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria coordinated the repatriation of 67 Nigerian nationals from South Africa on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. The returnees departed Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg via South African Airways and arrived at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at 8:45 p.m.
This operation was sponsored by a philanthropic group of private individuals, following a similar effort on August 19 that returned 83 Nigerians. The total number of Nigerians repatriated through this voluntary program has reached 1,638. Upon arrival in Lagos, group representatives Ikem Ume-Ezeoke and Chief Charles Mba provided each returnee with 50,000 Naira in immediate financial support.
Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu urged state governments to support the returning citizens, noting that the Imo and Abia state governments are already providing financial assistance to their indigenes. The repatriation efforts respond to ongoing anti-foreigner attacks and xenophobic sentiments in South Africa. Charles Mba encouraged the returnees to remain patriotic and rebuild their lives, asserting that their experiences abroad should not hinder their future growth.
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