At least 400 Nigerians have indicated interest to be evacuated from South Africa following xenophobic attacks, Godwin Adama, Nigeria’s consul-general in Johannesburg, said on Sunday.
According to him, the first batch of Nigerians who are willing to return home will be repatriated on Wednesday.
“We have more than enough for that aircraft. Over 400 Nigerians have already registered; more are still coming,” he said.
Air Peace had offered to airlift those ready to return home.
Kabiru Bala, Nigerian high commissioner to South Africa, said Nigerians in the country had responded positively to the offer in good numbers.
Bala said, “We are documenting them. Those without travel documents, we shall provide them with Emergency Travel Certificates.
“There are other governmental procedures that we must observe. Relevant agencies of government in Nigeria must be informed and must be ready to receive the returnees.
“Hard work is now going on at the high commission and consulate in this regard. As soon as all procedures and relevant protocols are observed, the return is assured and guaranteed. A little more patience will be helpful. The response of Nigerians is just amazing.”
Foreign nationals in South Africa, particularly Nigerians, have been targeted in fresh xenophobic attacks.
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