The Federal Government has concluded arrangements for the final evacuation of stranded Nigerians from South Africa, with 315 returnees expected to arrive in Lagos aboard an Air Peace flight on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
The operation marks the completion of the government's emergency repatriation exercise launched in response to recent xenophobic attacks and security concerns affecting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the fifth and final evacuation flight is scheduled to depart Johannesburg at 1:30 a.m. and arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at approximately 6:30 a.m.
The ministry explained that the returnees are among Nigerians who voluntarily indicated interest in returning home following renewed incidents of xenophobic violence and growing security concerns in South Africa.
The evacuation exercise was coordinated to ensure the safety and welfare of affected citizens.
Before the final flight, the Federal Government had successfully completed four evacuation operations, bringing home 1,141 Nigerians since the exercise began on June 11, 2026.
In addition, 66 Nigerians were reportedly evacuated through private arrangements, while another 39 citizens returned on separate Air Peace arrangements outside the main government operation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting Nigerians wherever they reside, stating that the successful completion of the evacuation exercise reflects its continued dedication to the welfare of citizens facing emergencies abroad.
The ministry also expressed appreciation to Air Peace and all stakeholders that supported the operation.
The latest evacuation follows renewed xenophobic attacks that have triggered concerns across Africa and prompted calls for stronger protection of migrant communities living in South Africa.
Nigerian authorities have continued to engage South African officials while providing assistance to citizens affected by the violence.
Air Peace has played a central role in the repatriation effort, operating the evacuation flights that transported stranded Nigerians back home.
The airline has previously partnered with the Federal Government on several humanitarian and emergency evacuation missions involving Nigerian citizens overseas.
With the arrival of the fifth flight, officials say the evacuation programme will formally come to an end, although the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has pledged to continue monitoring the situation in South Africa and provide necessary diplomatic support to Nigerians who remain in the country.
The conclusion of the operation underscores the importance of regional cooperation in addressing the humanitarian impact of xenophobic violence while reinforcing Nigeria's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens, regardless of where they reside around the world.