The federal government has adjusted the schedule for the evacuation of Nigerian citizens in South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in the country.
This update was confirmed in a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, who explained that the initial plan to begin the first evacuation flight on Monday has been shifted to Wednesday due to unforeseen logistical challenges.
According to the statement, President Bola Tinubu has approved five evacuation flights, which will be operated by Nigerian airline Air Peace to bring willing citizens back home.
The first flight is expected to convey about 270 passengers from Johannesburg on the new scheduled date, once all necessary permits and clearances have been concluded for the operation.
The ministry also confirmed that the ongoing screening exercise for Nigerians who have indicated interest in returning home has been extended to Wednesday to allow more affected citizens to be processed.
So far, more than 500 Nigerians have been screened and cleared for evacuation as arrangements continue to ensure a smooth and coordinated return process.
Zoyols News reports that officials have assured that the exercise is being handled carefully in collaboration with relevant authorities to support citizens affected by the recent unrest in South Africa.
