130 Nigerians Register for Evacuation from South Africa Amid Rising Xenophobic Tensions

No fewer than 130 Nigerians have registered for voluntary evacuation flights from South Africa as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to protect its citizens amid rising anti-foreigner tensions.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this in a situation update shared on her X handle on Sunday, noting that the evacuation plan is part of broader diplomatic and security measures.

According to her, the move follows directives from Bola Tinubu, who ordered increased monitoring of the situation and reinforced protection for Nigerians living abroad.

“The President has reiterated that the priority at this time remains the safety of our citizens,” she said, adding that arrangements are ongoing to coordinate voluntary return flights.

She confirmed that 130 Nigerians have already registered for evacuation through the Nigerian mission, with expectations that more may sign up as concerns grow.

The development comes amid renewed anti-immigrant protests in cities such as Pretoria and Johannesburg, which have heightened fears among foreign nationals, including Nigerians.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu also revealed that the ministry had summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, while diplomatic engagements continue with authorities in South Africa.

She noted that although recent protests held between April 27 and 29 were largely peaceful, they required heavy police presence to prevent escalation.

“There is heightened anxiety over the series of anti-foreigner protests… which have generated worldwide condemnation,” she said.

Despite the protests, the minister clarified that no Nigerian deaths or property destruction were recorded during the recent demonstrations. However, she confirmed two earlier deaths involving Nigerians, allegedly linked to security personnel.

One victim reportedly died after sustaining injuries from alleged assault by members of the South African National Defence Force, while another was said to have died following an encounter with local police.

Describing the incidents as unacceptable, she said Nigeria is demanding justice while closely monitoring ongoing investigations.

With another round of protests expected between May 4 and 8, the Nigerian government says it is strengthening coordination with South African authorities to ensure the safety of its citizens.

The minister also highlighted Nigeria’s historical role in supporting South Africa’s liberation struggle, stressing that Nigerian lives and businesses must not be endangered.

She added that both countries recently signed a memorandum of understanding on early warning systems aimed at protecting citizens and preventing future xenophobic violence.