Nigeria's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs is expected to receive 268 Nigerians being evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic tensions and anti-immigrant protests.
The returnees are among hundreds of Nigerians who registered for voluntary repatriation after expressing concerns about their safety and wellbeing.
The evacuation exercise forms part of the Federal Government's response to growing reports of hostility and violence targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.
Nigerian authorities said the exercise is being coordinated through diplomatic channels and relevant government agencies.
Officials disclosed that the returnees underwent screening before being cleared for evacuation to Nigeria.
The screening process involved cooperation between Nigerian diplomatic officials and South African authorities.
Government representatives said the exercise was designed to ensure that all eligible applicants were properly documented before departure.
Recent anti-immigrant demonstrations in South Africa have sparked concern among several African countries with large migrant populations.
The protests have led to calls for stronger protection of foreign nationals and greater efforts to prevent xenophobic violence.
Nigeria has repeatedly engaged South African authorities over the situation through diplomatic channels.
The Federal Government earlier announced plans to assist affected citizens who wished to return home voluntarily.
Authorities later approved free evacuation flights for registered Nigerians instead of requiring them to cover transportation costs.
Officials say the decision reflects the government's commitment to protecting the welfare of Nigerians abroad.
Reports indicate that more than 1,000 Nigerians have registered for the voluntary repatriation programme.
Additional registrations are still being received as authorities continue to monitor developments.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned xenophobic violence and pledged action against groups responsible for attacks on foreign nationals.
He stated that immigration enforcement should remain the responsibility of government institutions rather than vigilante groups.
Observers believe the situation has highlighted the broader challenges of migration, unemployment, and social tensions across the region.
Many analysts have also called for stronger cooperation between African governments to address the root causes of recurring xenophobic incidents.
The arrival of the 268 Nigerians is expected to mark the first major phase of the ongoing evacuation programme.
Government agencies are expected to provide support and assistance to the returnees upon arrival.
As the evacuation continues, authorities say protecting Nigerian citizens abroad remains a key priority while diplomatic engagements with South Africa are sustained.