FG Extends Final Evacuations Of Nigerians From South Africa

FG Extends Final Evacuation of Nigerians from South Africa Amid Xenophobic AttacksThe Federal Government has announced the final phase of its evacuation programme for Nigerians stranded in South Africa, citing persistent xenophobic attacks and a deteriorating security situation.In a fresh advisory, the government urged Nigerians whose lives are at risk to take advantage of the remaining evacuation flights, warning that it can no longer guarantee the safety of those who choose to remain in the country.

The advisory was contained in a statement issued by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and posted on her official X account on Tuesday.According to the minister, the security situation in South Africa remains volatile, with no indication that the wave of xenophobic attacks targeting migrants is easing.The latest warning follows the Federal Government’s condemnation of the recent killing of two Nigerians in South Africa. The victims, Emeka Charles Iroegbu, was allegedly killed by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police in Pretoria, while Musa Yunana Joe, popularly known as “Big Joe,” was shot dead in front of his shop in Witbank.

Nigeria has demanded a thorough investigation into the killings and the prosecution of those responsible, while reiterating its commitment to protecting the lives and interests of its citizens abroad.Odumegwu-Ojukwu disclosed that the Federal Government had extended the evacuation exercise beyond the initial June 30 deadline approved by Bola Tinubu in response to the continued security threats facing Nigerians in South Africa.She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians overseas and urged those who feel threatened to make use of the remaining evacuation flights before the programme comes to an end.