By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul
The Federal Government has commenced plans to repatriate more than 1,000 Nigerian citizens from South Africa following growing concerns over anti-immigrant tensions and fears of possible xenophobic attacks.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that screening for the voluntary repatriation exercise began on Thursday as authorities prepare for the return of affected Nigerians.
Speaking on the development, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, disclosed that the final figure is still being compiled, but over 1,000 Nigerians are expected to participate in the exercise.
“Total figure not out yet. We are expecting over 1,000 persons,” he said.
The repatriation is aimed at assisting Nigerians who wish to leave South Africa amid growing uncertainty and concerns about their safety.
Nigerian Mission Secures Waivers for Returnees
In a communiqué issued by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, the mission revealed that it has secured special waivers from the South African authorities.
The waivers will allow Nigerians with immigration-related offences to return home voluntarily without facing arrest, detention, or other penalties before departure.
The arrangement is expected to ease the repatriation process for many affected individuals.
Rising Anti-Immigrant Sentiments Spark Concern
The development comes amid renewed concerns about hostility towards foreign nationals in South Africa.
Recent protests and threats targeting undocumented migrants have raised fears of another wave of xenophobic violence in the country.
Tensions reportedly escalated after a citizen-led group issued an ultimatum demanding the removal of illegal migrants by June 30.
South Africa Battles Unemployment Challenges
South Africa remains one of Africa’s most industrialised economies and has long attracted migrants from across the continent in search of better economic opportunities.
However, the country’s unemployment rate, which remains above 30 per cent, has continued to fuel anti-immigrant sentiments among some sections of the population.
South African authorities have reiterated their commitment to enforcing immigration laws while urging citizens to avoid violence and refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
Migration Debate Returns to the Forefront
According to official statistics, more than three million foreign nationals currently reside in South Africa, representing approximately 5.1 per cent of the country’s population.
Most migrants originate from countries within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
The planned repatriation of Nigerians has renewed discussions across Africa about migration, regional integration, and the challenges faced by migrants despite decades of pan-African cooperation and ideals.
