Hundreds of Nigerians in South Africa are facing growing uncertainty as a June 30 deadline set by anti-immigration groups draws closer, with many already abandoning their homes and waiting for evacuation flights back to Nigeria.
A Nigerian trader and businessman, Wilson Oghodero, told the BBC that undocumented foreign nationals are under pressure following warnings from anti-migrant groups that they intend to conduct house-to-house checks for immigration documents after the deadline.
The groups, which have been campaigning for stricter immigration enforcement, have called on undocumented migrants to leave South Africa by June 30. The announcement has sparked anxiety among many Nigerians, particularly those who have already registered for repatriation.
Oghodero said several Nigerians have terminated their rental agreements, sold their belongings, and moved closer to the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria while awaiting evacuation arrangements.
“Some people came from distant locations and are now staying around the Nigerian mission because they cannot return to their homes. They have sold their property and are simply waiting for the evacuation flight,” he said.
Earlier this month, a flight carrying 268 Nigerians arrived in Lagos from Johannesburg as part of Nigeria’s ongoing evacuation programme. Authorities previously disclosed that about 1,000 Nigerians had registered to return home. However, many of those still awaiting evacuation say they have not received updated information on when the next flights will depart.
Oghodero described the situation as frustrating, noting that he has already informed his landlord that he is leaving. “I am stranded at the moment and do not know what will happen at the end of the month. We are still waiting for clear communication from the authorities,” he said.
Another Nigerian resident, Christian Onyenweaku, told local media that conditions at the Nigerian High Commission have become difficult for those waiting to be evacuated. According to him, some people are sleeping outdoors, while others are struggling with illness and limited access to food.
He said support from churches and humanitarian organisations has become a lifeline for many stranded Nigerians. “Without assistance from pastors and aid groups, many people would have nothing to eat,” he said.
The evacuation effort follows weeks of anti-immigration protests across South Africa. Several African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Malawi, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, have taken steps to assist citizens seeking to leave the country.
Meanwhile, South African authorities have pledged to maintain law and order during planned demonstrations. Police have warned protesters against carrying weapons and insisted that peaceful protest must not turn into violence.
Provincial Commissioner Vuyisile Ncata said law enforcement agencies would be deployed across affected areas to prevent intimidation, violence, or criminal activity during the demonstrations. He urged organisers to ensure participants comply with the law and avoid actions that could endanger others.
