The Federal Government has issued a fresh advisory to Nigerians living in South Africa, urging them to remain vigilant and avoid areas affected by anti-migrant tensions as preparations continue for an evacuation flight scheduled for Tuesday.
The warning comes amid heightened concerns over the safety of foreign nationals following recent incidents of xenophobic threats and protests in parts of South Africa. Nigerian authorities have advised citizens to remain calm, comply with local laws, and stay in close contact with the Nigerian High Commission for updates and emergency assistance.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, arrangements have been finalized for a special evacuation flight to assist Nigerians who wish to return home voluntarily. The flight is expected to depart on Tuesday, with priority given to vulnerable individuals, including women, children, the elderly, and those requiring urgent assistance.
The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria has continued to register affected citizens and coordinate with South African authorities to ensure a safe and orderly evacuation process. Officials have urged eligible Nigerians to complete the necessary documentation and follow instructions issued by the mission.
The Federal Government reiterated that it is engaging the South African government through diplomatic channels to ensure the protection of Nigerian citizens and other foreign nationals. It also called on South African authorities to uphold the rule of law and take decisive action against individuals responsible for acts of violence and intimidation.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has previously condemned xenophobic attacks and emphasized that disputes over immigration must be handled through legal processes rather than violence. Security agencies have increased patrols in several areas to prevent further unrest and protect affected communities.
Community leaders have also appealed for calm, encouraging Nigerians to avoid confrontations and report any threats or suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies and the Nigerian High Commission.
The planned evacuation underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of its citizens abroad while diplomatic efforts continue to address the underlying tensions. Authorities have assured Nigerians that additional measures will be considered if the security situation deteriorates further.
As the Tuesday flight approaches, affected Nigerians are encouraged to remain informed through official government channels and cooperate with embassy officials to ensure a smooth and safe evacuation process.
