Xenophobia: Final batch of 315 Nigerians returns from South Africa Wednesday
By: Abudu Olalekan
The Federal Government announced that the final evacuation flight carrying Nigerian citizens from South Africa will arrive on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
The sixth plane carries 315 passengers, according to the Foreign Ministry’s latest update.
The information was released on Tuesday by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, through the media.
The flight will lift off South Africa at 1:30 a.m. and land at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos between 6:30 a.m.
“The fifth and final evacuation flight departed Johannesburg for Lagos with 315 returnees and is scheduled to arrive in the State capital on Wednesday morning,” read the Foreign Ministry’s short but precise statement.
Nigerians opted to return to Nigeria after xenophobic violence and other unsettling developments in South Africa.
It should be noted that prior to this, the Federal Government had already sent out four evacuation planes.
From June 11 to the current day, 2026, the Foreign Ministry has repatriated 1,141 Nigerians via this mission.
Meanwhile, another 66 citizens were evacuated on an unauthorized basis by an individual, while 39 others returned to Nigeria on a separate Air Peace plane.
The announcement marked the conclusion of the challenging and emotionally draining operation.
“The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to the safety and security of Nigerians both at home and abroad and acknowledged the tremendous role played by agencies and individuals in facilitating the successful evacuation process,” the Ministry said in the statement.
Olalekan A. Abudu is a seasoned and dedicated News Journalist at REPORTERS ROOM, with over eight years of experience. He specializes in politics, climate change, health, and education, while also covering security, economic, and judicial issues. Committed to accuracy and balanced reporting, Olalekan exemplifies the principles of public-interest journalism.
