Another batch of 83 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa amid rising Xenophobic attacks and anti-foreigner sentiments is expected to arrive in Lagos on Wednesday, August 19.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement on Monday, said the returnees would depart Oliver Tambo Airport, Johannesburg, at 3:35pm local time aboard South African Airways and are expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at about 8:45pm.
The ministry said the latest evacuation was facilitated through the intervention and sponsorship of air tickets by private individuals.
The development follows the conclusion of the Federal Government’s voluntary repatriation programme, under which nearly 1,490 Nigerians have been brought back from South Africa amid concerns over attacks, discrimination and anti-foreigner sentiments.
The ministry said the government remained committed to protecting the welfare and dignity of Nigerians at home and abroad.
It added that Nigeria’s Citizen Diplomacy agenda recognises Nigerians in the diaspora as important contributors to national development and not a burden.
The ministry also commended the individuals and philanthropists who funded the latest evacuation, describing their support as an example of the “whole-of-society approach” to responding to consular emergencies.
It called on the organised private sector, corporate organisations, state governments and other well-meaning Nigerians to support efforts to assist citizens facing emergencies abroad.
The latest evacuation highlights the continued concerns over the safety and welfare of Nigerians living in South Africa as the Federal Government seeks stronger diplomatic cooperation with the South African authorities.
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