The Federal Government has initiated plans to repatriate over 1,000 Nigerians from South Africa as concerns mount over rising anti-immigrant sentiment and renewed xenophobic tensions in the southern African nation. This development was disclosed on Friday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, following the commencement of a voluntary repatriation programme on Thursday for Nigerians willing to return home.
Foreign nationals in South Africa, including Nigerians, have faced escalating attacks and hostility in recent weeks. Some South Africans have blamed immigrants for rising unemployment, crime, and pressure on public services. The Federal Government stated that the number of Nigerians expected to participate in the repatriation exercise is not expected to be less than 1,000, though the final figure is still being determined. Ebienfa confirmed that screening has already begun for interested individuals under the voluntary repatriation programme.
Nigeria’s High Commission in Pretoria also disclosed that it has secured concessions from South African authorities to facilitate the return of affected Nigerians, including those with immigration-related issues. According to the mission, discussions with host authorities ensured that Nigerians facing immigration-related offences would be allowed to leave through the repatriation arrangement instead of being detained. This development comes days after Ghana issued a travel advisory warning its citizens against non-essential travel to South Africa over renewed reports of xenophobic attacks targeting African migrants. On June 1, Nairametrics reported that Ghana urged its citizens to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel to South Africa as concerns mounted over the safety of foreign nationals.
The latest tensions were heightened by an ultimatum reportedly issued by a citizen-led group demanding the expulsion of undocumented migrants by June 30, raising fears of a repeat of previous outbreaks of anti-immigrant violence that claimed dozens of lives. Nigeria has stepped up diplomatic engagement with South African authorities in response to the growing security concerns affecting its citizens. The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) also confirmed that at least two Nigerians were killed in separate incidents linked to anti-foreigner violence. As attacks increased, NIDCOM outlined four key demands to South African authorities.
Meanwhile, broader economic and policy developments continue to shape Nigeria’s landscape. Shell Executives Ignored longstanding environmental concerns in the Niger Delta, drawing criticism from advocacy groups. In the energy sector, Dangote Refinery Surpasses initial production targets, boosting domestic fuel supply and reducing import dependency. On the security front, discussions around Nigeria State Police: proposals have gained traction as a potential solution to rising crime. Additionally, Naira Strengthens Below key exchange rate thresholds, offering some relief to importers and businesses amid ongoing currency volatility.
