- The screening exercise, which began on Thursday, is being coordinated by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria in collaboration with South African authorities
- He revealed that more than 500 Nigerians have already been screened and approved for evacuation
The Federal Government has extended the screening process for Nigerians in South Africa who have applied to return home amid rising xenophobic tensions, pushing the deadline to June 10, 2026.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the extension was announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday as authorities continue efforts to accommodate all Nigerians seeking evacuation.
According to the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the decision was conveyed by Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in Pretoria after ongoing assessments of applicants.
The screening exercise, which began on Thursday, is being coordinated by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria in collaboration with South African authorities, including the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, immigration officials, and security agencies.
Officials said the verification exercise is aimed at determining the exact number of Nigerians eligible for evacuation before final travel arrangements are concluded.
Providing an update, Ebienfa disclosed that the exercise would now continue until Wednesday, June 10, to allow more applicants to complete the process.
He revealed that more than 500 Nigerians have already been screened and approved for evacuation.
The spokesperson further stated that President Bola Tinubu has approved five evacuation flights to bring affected citizens back to Nigeria. He added that Air Peace has been selected to operate the flights.
According to him, the first flight is expected to depart Johannesburg with about 270 passengers once the required permits and operational clearances are secured.
The evacuation initiative forms part of the Federal Government’s response to renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which have prompted many Nigerians living in the country to seek voluntary return to Nigeria.
