No fewer than 130 Nigerians have registered for voluntary evacuation flights from South Africa, as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to safeguard its citizens following renewed anti-foreigner tensions.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this in a situation update on Sunday, noting that the evacuation plan is part of coordinated diplomatic and security measures involving Nigeria’s missions in South Africa.
She explained that the initiative follows a directive from Bola Tinubu, who ordered closer monitoring of developments and enhanced protection for Nigerians abroad.
“The President has reiterated that the priority at this time remains the safety of our citizens,” the minister said, adding that efforts are ongoing to compile data of Nigerians willing to return home under the voluntary repatriation programme.
According to her, the number of registrants is expected to rise as more Nigerians indicate interest in leaving the country.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also confirmed that Nigeria has taken diplomatic steps by summoning South Africa’s acting high commissioner, while engagements with authorities in the host country continue.
