Third Batch of 298 Nigerians Evacuated from South Africa Returns Home

The third batch of Nigerian returnees from South Africa has arrived in the country, marking the latest phase of a presidential evacuation directive aimed at bringing stranded citizens back home.

The 298 returnees landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport aboard Air Peace Airlines, accompanied by officials from the Nigerian Embassy in South Africa. The evacuation was facilitated and fully funded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has vowed to ensure the safe return of all stranded Nigerians willing to come home.

Officials on hand to receive the returnees included staff of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission led by Chairman and CEO Abike Dabiri-Erewa, who announced financial support for the evacuees. The returnees expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Ojukwu, and Acting High Commissioner to South Africa Ambassador Temitope Alexander-Ajayi.

READ MORE: Niger Introduces Death Penalty for Large-Scale Embezzlement of Public Funds

Several state governments also extended support to their indigenes. Returnees from Imo State received one million naira each, courtesy of Governor Hope Uzodinma. MTN donated free SIM packs with data worth N50,000 and an additional N100,000 to be paid into the bank accounts of all returnees. Officials from Edo and Delta states were present to receive their indigenes and affirmed their governors’ commitment to easing the reintegration process.

The latest operation brings the total number of Nigerians evacuated by Air Peace to 533 across separate missions. According to the airline, the exercise marked its 16th humanitarian and evacuation mission, reflecting its longstanding commitment to assisting Nigerians during emergencies and national crises.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, commended Air Peace and the Federal Government for the successful evacuation, describing the operation as a remarkable demonstration of patriotism, compassion, and commitment to national service. She praised the airline’s management and staff for prioritising national interest over commercial considerations, adding that the evacuation proved that no Nigerian should be abandoned in moments of distress. The lawmaker also commended the collaboration between Air Peace and the Federal Government, noting that such partnerships strengthen public confidence and improve Nigeria’s capacity to respond to humanitarian emergencies.

About The Author

West Africa Weekly

author

See author's posts