Sixty-seven Nigerians have returned home from South Africa amid continued concerns over attacks targeting Nigerians and other African migrants in the country.
The returnees arrived at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos on Wednesday night aboard South African Airways. Their repatriation was facilitated by a group of private individuals who have been supporting Nigerians seeking to return home.
The latest arrivals bring to 150 the number of Nigerians repatriated with support from the philanthropic group, following the return of 83 Nigerians previously assisted by the organisation.
Speaking to the returnees, Ikem Ume-Ezeoke and businessman and philanthropist Charles Mba represented the group and presented ₦50,000 to each returnee. Mba urged them to remain patriotic and comply with regulations set by relevant government agencies.
Mba also encouraged the returnees not to see their experiences in South Africa as the end of their prospects. He said they could still rebuild their lives in Nigeria, particularly the children who returned with their families.
Ume-Ezeoke, the group’s coordinator, commended previous efforts by the Federal Government to assist Nigerians affected by the situation. He also urged the returnees to take advantage of opportunities available in Nigeria.
The repatriation comes against the backdrop of reported attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals in parts of South Africa. More than 1,000 Nigerians have reportedly returned to the country in recent weeks, while Ghana, Malawi and other African countries have also facilitated the return of their citizens.
