Taiwo POPOOLA
The Federal Government has completed the screening of Nigerians who registered for evacuation from South Africa, paving the way for the final phase of arrangements to bring them home.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement, noting that the screening exercise began on Thursday, June 4, and involved multiple Nigerian and South African agencies.
According to the ministry, the exercise was conducted jointly by officials of the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, the South African Police Service, and immigration authorities.
The government said the exercise was aimed at verifying the identities and eligibility of Nigerians who indicated interest in returning to the country amid rising security concerns.
With the screening now concluded, authorities are expected to determine the final number of Nigerians cleared for evacuation.
“The Government will subsequently conclude arrangements for the deployment of aircraft to convey the evacuees back to Nigeria,” the statement said.
The planned evacuation comes against the backdrop of renewed xenophobic attacks and growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians and other African migrants living in South Africa.
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to protecting the welfare of Nigerians abroad and ensuring the safe return of those affected by the latest wave of anti-foreigner violence.
