No fewer than 130 Nigerians have registered for voluntary evacuation from South Africa amid renewed tensions triggered by anti-foreigner protests in parts of the country.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this in a situation update on Sunday, noting that the move forms part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to safeguard its citizens abroad.
She explained that the evacuation plan followed directives from President Bola Tinubu, who ordered intensified monitoring of the situation and enhanced protection for Nigerians.
According to the minister, arrangements are underway through Nigeria’s diplomatic missions to compile details of citizens willing to return home under the voluntary repatriation programme.
“So far, about 130 Nigerians have registered for evacuation, and the number is expected to rise as more people indicate interest,” she said.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu added that diplomatic engagements had been activated, including summoning South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, as authorities seek to address growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians.
The development comes against the backdrop of fresh anti-immigrant demonstrations in cities such as Pretoria and Johannesburg, which have heightened anxiety among foreign nationals.
While noting that recent protests held between April 27 and 29 were largely peaceful under heavy security presence, the minister said disturbing images and rhetoric circulating online had sparked global concern.
She, however, confirmed two separate fatalities involving Nigerians, both allegedly linked to encounters with security operatives.
One of the victims, Amamiro Chidiebere Emmanuel, reportedly died from injuries sustained after an alleged assault by personnel of the South African National Defence Force, while another, Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew, was said to have died following an encounter with metropolitan police officials.
Describing the incidents as unacceptable, the minister said Nigerian authorities were closely monitoring ongoing investigations and demanded justice.
She further disclosed that another round of protests is expected between May 4 and 8, prompting intensified diplomatic and security coordination between both countries.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed that Nigeria remains committed to protecting its citizens and working with South African authorities to curb recurring xenophobic incidents.
She also noted that both countries recently signed a bilateral agreement aimed at strengthening early warning mechanisms to protect citizens during periods of tension.
