The third batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa has arrived in Lagos as part of the Federal Government’s ongoing evacuation programme.
An Air Peace flight carrying about 271 evacuees landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport shortly before 11 a.m. on Tuesday.
On Monday, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, announced that the third batch of evacuees from South Africa would arrive in Lagos on Tuesday with 271 Nigerians on board.
The evacuation followed the June 30 deadline announced by vigilante groups and other organisations demanding the departure of undocumented migrants from South Africa.
In a nationwide address on Monday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged concerns over illegal immigration. However, he warned that protests must remain peaceful and within the law.
He also cautioned against violence, intimidation, vandalism and attacks on foreign nationals, stressing that immigration enforcement is the responsibility of the government.
The first batch of evacuees included 258 Nigerians, while the second batch brought home 66 returnees.
