Nigeria has repatriated another 105 citizens from South Africa, bringing the total number of Nigerians returned to the country since June to 1,926, following concerns over xenophobic attacks and violence against foreign nationals.

The latest group arrived in Lagos as part of the Federal Government’s ongoing consular evacuation programme, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The latest returnees comprised 26 men, 29 women and 50 children, the ministry’s spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, said.

The evacuation was the 14th consular evacuation flight from South Africa since the programme began on June 10, 2026.

More Nigerians awaiting evacuation

The Federal Government said the evacuation exercise is continuing, with additional Nigerians undergoing verification and clearance in South Africa ahead of further repatriation flights.

The development comes amid continued concerns over xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks affecting Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.

Nigeria has been engaging South African authorities on measures to address the violence and improve the safety of Nigerians living in the country.

Government urges Nigerians to remain vigilant

The Nigerian government has urged citizens still living in South Africa to remain vigilant and obey local laws.

Nigerians have also been advised to maintain contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg so they can receive consular assistance when necessary.

The government says it remains committed to protecting the lives, rights and welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora while continuing diplomatic efforts with South African authorities.

With the latest arrival of 105 Nigerians, the evacuation programme has now brought 1,926 Nigerians back home since June, highlighting the scale of the ongoing response to concerns over their safety in South Africa.

Source: Reuters / Nigeria Ministry of Foreign Affairs