The Nigerian government has successfully repatriated 1,695 of its citizens from South Africa this year, as reported by the Acting High Commissioner to South Africa, Ambassador Ajayi Alexander. This evacuation comes in response to increasing threats against foreign nationals, particularly amid rising tensions fueled by anti-immigrant groups in the region.

Ambassador Alexander disclosed that of the total repatriated, 1,490 Nigerians were brought back through government-sponsored efforts, while 205 returned with assistance from private individuals. The Nigerian government organized five repatriation flights, each accommodating at least 200 citizens, and facilitated additional arrangements for those wishing to return home, including two or three batches of one-way tickets.

The repatriation process has been voluntary, meaning that some individuals who registered for the flights ultimately chose not to board. Among those returning were Nigerians who owned property in South Africa and others who had legal residency but faced challenges renewing their permits due to the ongoing situation.

The Nigerian mission is preparing for another round of evacuations, spurred by an offer from the Redeemed Christian Church of God to sponsor the return of 500 Nigerians. Ambassador Alexander has called upon other religious organizations and private entities to contribute to funding future evacuations as the situation remains precarious.

The urgency of these evacuations is underscored by fresh threats issued by anti-immigrant groups in South Africa, which have demanded that foreigners leave the country by the end of September. Alexander emphasized that the mission is taking these threats seriously, prioritizing the safety of Nigerians in South Africa to avoid potential violence.

Despite the escalating security concerns, Ambassador Alexander affirmed that diplomatic relations between Nigeria and South Africa remain strong at the highest levels of government. He noted ongoing efforts to ease tensions over the recurring violence against Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa.

In July, South Africa's Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, led a delegation to Abuja to discuss the matter following directives from Nigerian President Bola Tinubu. The Nigerian government has previously reported that 98 Nigerians have died in mob and hate-related incidents since 2022, highlighting the severity of the situation.

Both countries have agreed on several key areas to address these challenges, including the establishment of preventive mechanisms, prosecution of offenders, and respect for the rule of law. However, a proposed early-warning mechanism aimed at sharing information and responding to threats before they escalate remains unresolved, despite being under negotiation for six to seven years. While Nigeria has signed its part of the agreement, South Africa has completed its obligations, but the mechanism has yet to be operational.

Ambassador Alexander reiterated the mission's commitment to protecting Nigerians in South Africa while facilitating safe returns for those who wish to come home. He stated, "We want to be able to evacuate as many as possible so that we will not allow violence to be inflicted on them."