The first batch of Nigerians being repatriated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks is expected to arrive in Lagos on Thursday morning.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa.
According to the ministry, the returnees will be transported aboard an Air Peace flight scheduled to depart O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday night.
The aircraft is expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at about 5:00 a.m. on Thursday.
The repatriation follows renewed concerns over xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, prompting Nigerian authorities to facilitate the voluntary return of affected citizens.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and welfare of Nigerians living in South Africa and said it would continue engaging relevant stakeholders to address the situation.