The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, noting that the latest batch arrived in Lagos on Thursday, October 8, 2026, aboard South African Airways Flight SA060.
According to the statement, the returnees comprised 44 men, 23 women and 44 children. Officials from the ministry, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other government agencies received them on arrival.
The ministry said the latest evacuation was fully funded by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), which donated $265,854 to support the return of 500 distressed Nigerians from South Africa.
It added that the latest exercise brought the number of consular evacuations from the country to 15 since the operation began on June 10, 2026.
Of the 2,037 Nigerians evacuated so far, the Federal Government has covered the repatriation costs of 1,388, while 318 have benefited from one-way tickets funded by the RCCG. The remaining 182 tickets are expected to be covered under the church’s commitment.
The ministry expressed appreciation to the church, led by Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, for its financial support towards the evacuation of distressed Nigerians.
It also said the government would continue engaging relevant stakeholders, including South African authorities, to address xenophobia and Afrophobia and promote the safety and welfare of Nigerians living in the country.
The ministry advised Nigerians in South Africa to obey local laws, remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves.
It further urged citizens to maintain contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg for assistance when necessary.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to providing timely support to Nigerians abroad and protecting their welfare.
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