06/05/2026
Nigerian government has started plans to repatriate Nigerians from South Africa amidst xenophobia
According to multiple reports published on June 5, 2026, the Nigerian government has begun a voluntary repatriation program for Nigerians who wish to leave South Africa amid growing xenophobic tensions and anti-immigrant violence. Screening of applicants has already started, and officials expect more than 1,000 Nigerians to participate.
Key developments include:
Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the repatriation exercise is voluntary and aimed at citizens concerned about their safety.
Reuters reported that 1,094 Nigerians had registered for the program as of June 5, a sharp increase from earlier figures reported in May.
The move comes after renewed anti-immigrant protests in South Africa, where some groups have called for undocumented migrants to leave the country.
Other African countries, including Ghana and Mozambique, have also repatriated citizens following recent attacks and rising tensions.
At the same time, the government of South Africa has condemned the violence and says it is increasing enforcement against undocumented immigration while urging citizens not to engage in vigilantism or attacks on foreigners.
This is a developing situation, but the reports indicate that the repatriation plans are real and already underway.
A. Muwanki (Daddymu)