Why the Nigerian Government Postponed the Evacuation of Citizens from South Africa

The Nigerian government has explained why it postponed the planned evacuation of its citizens from South Africa, saying the delay was caused by administrative and logistical issues.

The first evacuation flight, which was initially scheduled to depart earlier this week, has now been moved to Wednesday to allow authorities complete the necessary preparations. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the aircraft designated for the operation was still awaiting some required flight permits and clearance approvals before it could take off.

Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the government remains committed to bringing home Nigerians who have voluntarily chosen to return following renewed xenophobic attacks and anti-immigrant tensions in parts of South Africa.

More than 1,000 Nigerians have reportedly registered for the voluntary repatriation programme. Officials from both Nigeria and South Africa have been screening and verifying those eligible for the evacuation to ensure an orderly process.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is said to have approved multiple evacuation flights, with the first flight expected to transport hundreds of Nigerians once all outstanding approvals are secured.

The Federal Government stressed that the postponement does not mean the evacuation has been cancelled. Rather, it is a temporary delay aimed at ensuring that all safety, immigration and aviation requirements are fully met before the operation proceeds.

The government also urged Nigerians in South Africa to remain calm and cooperate with officials as efforts continue to facilitate their safe return home.