In a significant homecoming, 105 Nigerians have returned to their homeland after enduring years of hardship in South Africa, marked by xenophobic attacks, police detentions, and struggles to maintain their businesses. This return was facilitated by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), which aims to help those affected by the challenging conditions faced abroad.

Among the returnees is Eze Pauline Ijeoma, who expressed profound relief at being back in Nigeria. Ijeoma, originally from Imo State, described her time in South Africa as increasingly perilous, stating, "No more xenophobic, no more attack, no more police, no more problems. No more killings. So, we are so happy." She left Nigeria in 2013 and returned in 2023, recounting the escalating difficulties she faced, particularly as a food vendor.

Ijeoma detailed her struggles with police harassment, which made it nearly impossible for her to conduct her business. "Every time police will arrest you for doing nothing. Even going to business is a problem," she said. The emotional toll was compounded by the loss of her husband in South Africa, which pushed her to sell food as a means of survival.

Another returnee, Chukwuma Augustine Ayoka, echoed similar sentiments, describing the return as a rescue mission. He highlighted the dire circumstances that forced many Nigerians to leave, stating, "Life became terrible. You can’t even get out of your house." Ayoka expressed gratitude towards the RCCG for facilitating their return, noting the challenges they faced in South Africa, including business closures and threats to their safety.

The RCCG's initiative to bring back Nigerians in distress was launched following a “Save Our Soul” appeal from those living in South Africa. Pastor Belemina Obunge, who oversees the church's task force for the returnees, explained that the church's General Overseer, Pastor E.A. Adeboye, approved the intervention after hearing about the plight of Nigerians stranded abroad. The church aims to airlift 500 individuals in total, with the latest batch comprising 55 adults, 45 children, and five infants.

Obunge emphasized that the initiative is not limited to RCCG members, stating, "They are wonderful, glorious, spectacular Nigerians, and by the grace of God, they are part of those that we have an assignment towards." The church has already brought back 205 Nigerians under this program, with plans for more batches to follow.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is also involved in the process, assisting with the reception of returnees and ensuring their safe transportation back to their home states. A representative from NEMA noted that the agency is working alongside the RCCG to document the returnees’ details for future assistance.

For Ijeoma, returning to Nigeria symbolizes a fresh start. She expressed hope for a better future, stating, "If we can survive there, in our own homes, we will make more, by the special grace of God." The stories of these returnees highlight the struggles many Nigerians face abroad and the importance of support systems in facilitating their safe return home.