The Federal Government has postponed the planned evacuation of Nigerian nationals from South Africa, moving the operation to Wednesday because of logistical challenges.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the change in a statement issued on Monday. The first batch of returnees had been scheduled to depart on Monday, but officials said the evacuation would now take place on Wednesday, 10 June.
The ministry attributed the delay to what it described as “unforeseen logistical considerations” and said arrangements were being finalised to ensure the exercise proceeds smoothly.
Authorities said the postponement would allow all operational requirements to be completed before the evacuation begins.
The government has been coordinating the return of Nigerians who indicated a willingness to leave South Africa following recent tensions involving foreign nationals in parts of the country.
More than 1,000 Nigerians have been screened and cleared under the repatriation programme, while President Bola Tinubu has approved five evacuation flights for the operation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said additional information on flight schedules and arrival arrangements would be communicated once final clearances are secured.
The evacuation effort comes as several African countries continue to assist citizens seeking to return from South Africa amid concerns over anti-immigration protests and attacks on foreign nationals.
Ademide Adebayo
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