The Federal Government has approved five evacuation flights to bring home Nigerians who have chosen to leave South Africa amid renewed xenophobic tensions.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the development on Sunday through its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
He said the evacuation effort is part of measures to assist Nigerians willing to return home as concerns grow in South Africa.
According to Ebienfa, the screening of registered applicants has been extended until Wednesday, June 10, 2026, to allow more people complete the verification process.
He said more than 500 Nigerians have already been screened and cleared for evacuation.
Ebienfa also disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the five flights, which will be operated by Air Peace.
The first flight is expected to leave Johannesburg on Monday evening and will carry about 270 passengers, pending final permits and clearances.
“The screening exercise of Nigerian nationals that have indicated interest to be evacuated back home has been extended to Wednesday 10th June, 2026,” he said.
“So far, over 500 persons have been screened and cleared. Mr. President has approved five evacuation flights that will be operated by Air Peace and the first flight which will airlift about 270 passengers is expected to leave Johannesburg on Monday evening if the necessary permits and clearance are secured.”
He added that departure and arrival details would be announced after final approvals are received from the Nigerian mission in South Africa.
The ministry had earlier planned to end the screening exercise on Saturday but extended it because of the number of applicants still awaiting verification.
Officials said the process remains ongoing as more Nigerians register for voluntary repatriation.
