Xenophobic attacks: First batch of Nigerians to arrive from South Africa tomorrow

From Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja

The Federal Government, has said that the first batch of Nigerian evacuees from the Republic of South Africa, will arrive Lagos tomorrow.

The development followed series of xenophobic attacks endured by Nigerians and other nationals living in South Africa.

On Sunday, the government said over 500 Nigerians had been screened and cleared for evacuation.

The government also said the first flight will airlift about 270 passengers from Johannesburg  to Nigeria as soon as the necessary permits and clearance were secured for the aircraft.

Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, in a statement issued in Abuja, said the first batch of Nigerian nationals that will be evacuated from the Republic of South Africa due to Xenophobic attacks will depart the Oliver Thambo International Airport in Johannesburg tonight and arrived at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos is 5am tomorrow.

He said the evacuation operation will be undertaken by Air Peace Airlines.

He disclosed that the Federal Government has fully funded the evacuation exercise, adding that all affected Nigerians will be repatriated at no cost to them.

“The ministry further wishes to assure the public that the Federal Government, through relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, has put in place the necessary reception and support arrangements for the returnees. Upon arrival, the evacuees will undergo documentation and profiling procedures and will receive the appropriate assistance and support before being reunited with their families,” Ebienfa said.