By Abigail David
The first batch of Nigerians being repatriated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks is expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Thursday morning.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.
According to the ministry, the returnees will travel aboard an Air Peace flight scheduled to depart O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday night and land in Lagos at about 5 a.m. on Thursday.
The evacuation follows renewed concerns over attacks on foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, prompting the Federal Government to facilitate the voluntary return of affected Nigerians.
The government said the exercise forms part of efforts to safeguard the welfare of its citizens abroad while engaging relevant South African authorities to address the situation.
Nigerian officials had earlier assured citizens residing in South Africa of continued support and measures aimed at ensuring their safety amid the unrest.
