Fed Govt evacuates Nigerians from South Africa

By Aminat Damilola

The first batch of Nigerians repatriated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks have arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, around 10: 40am, TODAY.

The returnees, findings revealed, were transported aboard an Air Peace flight which departed O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday night.

Security agencies, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), FAAN officials were on ground for through documentation and profiling procedures of evacuated Nigerians.

The aircraft’s landing followed hours of waiting by security personnel and other border management officials who kept vigil at the airport.

Scores of personnel had thronged the airport airside to witness the arrival of Nigerians, who continue to recount their ordeal in South Africa.

Spynews reports federal government had fully funded the repatriation exercise and also put in place the necessary reception and support arrangements for the returnees.

The returnees will also receive the appropriate assistance and support before being reunited with their families.

The repatriation exercise follows concerns over attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, prompting Nigerian authorities to facilitate the voluntary return of affected citizens.