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The Federal Government has postponed the evacuation of Nigerian nationals from South Africa, rescheduling the operation from Monday to Wednesday, June 10, due to logistical constraints.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the development in a statement issued on Monday, explaining that the delay became necessary to address operational issues and ensure a seamless evacuation process.
According to the ministry, the first batch of Nigerians willing to return home was initially scheduled to depart South Africa on Monday. However, authorities said additional time was required to finalise arrangements for the exercise.
Officials described the postponement as a result of unforeseen logistical considerations, stressing that all necessary procedures must be completed before the flights can commence.
The Federal Government has been coordinating efforts to repatriate Nigerians who expressed interest in leaving South Africa amid renewed concerns over the safety of foreign nationals in some parts of the country.
More than 1,000 Nigerians have reportedly been screened and cleared under the repatriation programme, while President Bola Tinubu has approved five evacuation flights to facilitate their return.
The ministry assured affected citizens that preparations were progressing and that the delay would help ensure a smooth and orderly operation.
It added that further details regarding flight schedules, departure times and arrival arrangements would be communicated once final clearances are obtained.
The evacuation initiative forms part of ongoing efforts by African governments to assist their citizens seeking to leave South Africa following incidents linked to anti-immigration protests and attacks targeting foreign nationals.
