A second batch of Nigerians has successfully returned home from South Africa as concerns over rising anti-immigration sentiments and planned protests continue to create uncertainty for many foreign nationals living in the country.
The latest group of returnees arrived in Lagos on Wednesday night after departing from Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport earlier in the day. The flight carried more than 60 Nigerians, including men, women, and children, who chose to participate in the Nigerian government’s voluntary repatriation programme.
The evacuation exercise comes amid growing fears among migrant communities in South Africa following weeks of anti-immigration protests in several parts of the country. Many foreign nationals, particularly Africans from neighboring countries, have expressed concerns about their safety as tensions surrounding immigration continue to intensify.
Earlier this month, more than 260 Nigerians arrived in Lagos on June 11 after registering to return voluntarily. However, the second evacuation flight, originally scheduled for June 15, experienced delays that left many registered participants uncertain about when they would be able to leave South Africa.
The latest evacuation effort is part of an ongoing initiative by the Nigerian government to assist citizens who wish to return home due to concerns about their security and wellbeing. Government officials welcomed the returnees upon arrival at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a limited number of Nigerians returned home earlier in the week, with approximately 50 individuals transported back to Nigeria. Despite these efforts, hundreds of Nigerians remain in South Africa awaiting evacuation.
Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, disclosed that nearly 700 Nigerians who registered for the programme are still waiting to be repatriated. He noted that logistical challenges have slowed the evacuation process, although authorities are working to ensure that the most vulnerable individuals are assisted before the end of the month.
“We are working seriously to ensure that we move the most vulnerable back to Nigeria before that date,” Ebienfa stated while discussing the government’s plans to accelerate the operation.
Reports indicate that more than 1,000 Nigerians have expressed interest in returning home as anti-immigration demonstrations and attacks targeting black foreign nationals spread across different parts of South Africa.
The situation has become increasingly concerning as June 30 approaches. Some anti-immigration groups have reportedly issued a deadline for undocumented migrants to leave the country, raising anxiety among foreign communities and prompting several African governments to take precautionary measures.
The Nigerian government has emphasized that the repatriation programme remains entirely voluntary and is intended for citizens who have requested assistance to return home. Officials continue to monitor developments closely while coordinating transportation for those seeking evacuation.
South Africa has witnessed weeks of anti-immigration protests, with some groups accusing foreign nationals of contributing to unemployment, crime, and increased pressure on public services. These claims have fueled public debate and heightened tensions in certain communities.
As a result, several African countries, including Ghana, Malawi, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe, have also begun supporting citizens who wish to leave South Africa due to safety concerns.
Meanwhile, South African authorities have urged residents not to take the law into their own hands. Government officials and law enforcement agencies have repeatedly warned against vigilante actions and emphasized that only authorized authorities have the legal power to verify immigration status and enforce immigration regulations.
Security measures have also been strengthened ahead of the planned June 30 demonstrations. Police have identified potential hotspots across several provinces and deployed additional officers to maintain public order and prevent violence.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has publicly condemned xenophobia and attacks against foreign nationals while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to addressing illegal immigration through lawful means.
During a public address delivered on June 7, 2026, Ramaphosa acknowledged the challenges posed by illegal migration and emphasized the government’s determination to improve border management and immigration enforcement.
“We must end illegal migration. We must deal with the challenges. We reject the notion that we must tolerate illegal migration. We can enforce our laws, secure our communities, and overcome the problem of illegal migration,” the president said.
At the same time, Ramaphosa stressed that illegal immigration should not be blamed for all of South Africa’s economic difficulties.
He noted that migration remains a global issue affecting many countries and pointed out that South Africa, like many nations around the world, has been shaped by migration throughout its history.
The president further stated that while immigration management remains important, broader economic and social challenges require comprehensive solutions that go beyond migration policies alone.
As the June 30 deadline approaches, thousands of migrants continue to watch developments closely while governments across Africa work to protect their citizens and ensure their safety during this period of heightened tension.
Conclusion
The return of additional Nigerians from South Africa highlights the growing concerns surrounding immigration-related tensions in the country. While authorities in both Nigeria and South Africa continue to manage the situation, hundreds of Nigerians are still awaiting evacuation. With planned anti-immigration protests drawing closer, efforts to ensure the safety and wellbeing of affected individuals remain a top priority for governments and international observers alike.
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