67 Nigerians Repatriated From South Africa Arrive Lagos Amid Xenophobic Tensions
Sixty-seven Nigerians repatriated from South Africa have arrived in Lagos following renewed concerns over xenophobic attacks and violence targeting foreign Nationals in the Country.
The returnees landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, aboard a South African Airways flight on Wednesday night, August 26, 2026, where they were received by officials from relevant Federal Government agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons.
The latest arrival brings the number of Nigerians repatriated from South Africa with the assistance of a group of philanthropic Nigerians to 150, following the return of another 83 Nigerians last Thursday.
Global Mirror News gathered that the repatriation exercise was supported by well-meaning Nigerians who reportedly provided financial assistance for flight tickets and other necessities to facilitate the safe return of the affected citizens.
Addressing the returnees after their arrival, representatives of the philanthropic group, Ikem Ume-Ezeoke and Chief Charles Mba, welcomed them back home and offered each returnee N50,000 as immediate financial assistance to help them meet pressing needs as they begin the process of settling back into Nigeria.
The South-West Coordinator of NEMA, Alex Oturu, explained that the latest repatriation was made possible through the intervention and generosity of Nigerians who responded to the difficulties being faced by their compatriots in South Africa.
According to him, the returnees were brought back against the backdrop of xenophobic challenges and growing insecurity confronting migrants in parts of the southern African Country.
The development comes amid reports of escalating violence involving migrants and foreign nationals in South Africa. Global Mirror News reports that concerns over attacks on foreigners have continued to trigger calls for stronger protection of migrants and greater intervention by authorities.
The latest repatriation also follows the earlier return of 83 Nigerians, bringing the combined number of citizens brought back under the current initiative to 150.
The situation has attracted international attention, with reports indicating that large numbers of migrants have been leaving South Africa amid the violence. More than 176,000 people have reportedly departed in recent weeks, according to an AFP tally based on figures supplied by African countries that have repatriated their Nationals.
South African Police have reportedly confirmed that at least four migrants were killed in the violence, although some foreign Governments have indicated that the actual death toll could be higher.
For the Nigerian returnees, their arrival marks the beginning of another chapter after experiencing difficult circumstances abroad. The immediate financial support provided by the philanthropic group is expected to offer temporary relief while Government Agencies and other stakeholders assess their needs and explore further assistance.
Global Mirror News understands that the latest development has once again drawn attention to the vulnerability of Nigerians and other African migrants living outside their home countries, particularly during periods of social unrest and xenophobic violence.
The Federal Government and relevant Agencies are expected to continue monitoring developments in South Africa while working with stakeholders to protect Nigerians who remain in the Country and facilitate assistance for citizens who wish to return home.
