By Attah Ede
Again, no fewer than 65 Nigerians are expected to return home from South Africa on Wednesday under a privately funded voluntary repatriation programme aimed at complementing the Federal Government’s ongoing evacuation efforts.
The latest batch, facilitated by the Nigerian Private Group of Business Friends, is the second phase of the initiative, following the successful return of 83 Nigerians last week.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the returnees comprise 30 adults, 34 children, one infant and an escorting mission official.
They are drawn from Lagos, Enugu, Kogi, Ogun, Imo, Oyo, Delta, Edo, Anambra, Osun, Benue, Abia and Kwara states.
The returnees are scheduled to depart O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg at 3:30 p.m. South African time and arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at 8:45 p.m. on the same day.
The repatriation comes amid continued concerns over the safety and welfare of Nigerians living in South Africa, following reports of recurring xenophobic attacks and protests by groups demanding the deportation of foreign nationals.
The ministry said the latest exercise further demonstrates the commitment of the Nigerian Private Group of Business Friends to supporting stranded citizens and strengthening the government’s humanitarian response.
“On behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs commends this group of individuals for complementing the Government’s efforts and for their proactive humanitarian interventions.”
The ministry also appealed to state governments to assist citizens returning from South Africa, noting that many were forced to abandon their businesses, jobs and personal belongings.
“We continue to appeal to state governments to complement Federal Government’s repatriation efforts by coming to the aid of their returnees, many of whom left South Africa, abandoning livelihoods and properties, and to assist towards alleviating the trauma their returning indigenes have endured by assisting them with relocation and resettlement.”
Welcoming the evacuees back to the country, the ministry added:
“To our returnees, we say, ‘Welcome Home.’”
