The Federal Government has announced that another evacuation flight carrying Nigerians back from South Africa is expected to arrive in Lagos on Tuesday as authorities continue efforts to protect citizens ahead of planned anti-immigration demonstrations.
Speaking on Monday, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed that an Air Peace aircraft had departed Nigeria and would return with another group of evacuees.
According to him, “Nigeria will resume the evacuation of our nationals from South Africa today.”
He explained that the Air Peace flight was scheduled to leave Nigeria on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 3:00 p.m., with arrival in South Africa expected later in the evening.
“Air Peace aircraft will depart Nigeria today, Monday, June 29, 2026, at 3:00 pm and is expected to arrive in South Africa at approximately 9:00 pm local time.
“The return flight is scheduled to depart South Africa at 12:00 midnight and is expected to arrive at Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, on Tuesday morning,” he added.
The latest operation comes as concerns grow over demonstrations planned to begin on June 30, with the government continuing its voluntary evacuation arrangement for Nigerians who have expressed interest in returning home.
Reports indicate that more than 700 Nigerians are still in South Africa only days before the planned protests by anti-immigration groups. Earlier reports suggested that despite President Bola Tinubu approving funds for evacuation, administrative delays slowed the release of resources, leaving many citizens waiting.
Ebienfa urged Nigerians who choose to remain in South Africa after the protests begin to remain alert and follow official guidance.
“To be calm and security conscious. Avoid routes and areas dominated by protesters. Always be in contact with the Nigerian High Commission for necessary updates,” he said.
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The evacuation programme was approved earlier this month by President Bola Tinubu to support Nigerians willing to return voluntarily.
On June 7, the Federal Government approved five Air Peace evacuation flights after more than 500 Nigerians had been screened for the exercise.
Before this latest trip, 328 Nigerians had already returned in two separate batches. The first flight brought back 262 citizens on June 11, while another group of 66 arrived in Lagos on June 25.
Government officials said the evacuation is being coordinated in partnership with Air Peace and other relevant agencies.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria had earlier advised Nigerians to minimise movement, avoid protest locations and remain vigilant following intelligence reports about demonstrations that could target foreign nationals.
The Federal Government also said discussions with South African authorities are ongoing to safeguard Nigerians while arrangements continue for those choosing to return home.