The Federal Government has rescheduled the evacuation of Nigerian nationals from South Africa, shifting the departure of the first repatriation flight from Monday, June 8, 2026, to Wednesday, June 10, 2026, due to logistical considerations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the adjustment in a statement on Monday, June 8, 2026, explaining that the decision followed unforeseen operational constraints affecting the planned airlift arrangement.
Spokesman of the ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said President Bola Tinubu had approved five evacuation flights to be operated by Air Peace to facilitate the voluntary return of Nigerians affected by renewed xenophobic tensions in South Africa.
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He disclosed that the first flight, expected to convey about 270 passengers, will now depart Johannesburg on the evening of Wednesday, pending final aviation permits and operational clearances.
Ebienfa also said the screening exercise for Nigerians who indicated interest in the evacuation has been extended to Wednesday, June 10, 2026, to allow additional applicants to be processed.
According to him, more than 500 Nigerians have already been screened and cleared for the evacuation exercise.
He added that Nigerian diplomatic missions in Pretoria are coordinating with relevant authorities in South Africa to ensure an orderly and safe repatriation process under the approved evacuation plan.