Nigeria has successfully completed a government-supported repatriation initiative from South Africa, having evacuated 1,490 citizens over a span of five weeks. This operation, which took place from June 10 to July 15, was initiated in response to escalating tensions and anti-immigrant demonstrations targeting foreign nationals in South Africa.
The conclusion of the programme marked the fulfillment of its planned evacuation mission. During the same period, other nations, including Uganda, Ghana, Liberia, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Kenya, conducted similar repatriation efforts to protect their citizens amidst the unrest.
Despite formally concluding the evacuation process, Nigeria has expressed ongoing concern for the safety and treatment of foreign nationals in South Africa. The Nigerian government has reiterated its stance against xenophobia, emphasizing its commitment to addressing these issues through diplomatic channels.
This significant development underscores the broader regional response to the complex challenges faced by foreign nationals in South Africa, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation and diplomatic engagement in addressing xenophobic tensions.