By Julian Osamoto
Another batch of sixty-six Nigerians evacuated from South Africa has arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to protect citizens facing challenges abroad.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) said the returnees arrived on Wednesday night and were received by government agencies responsible for migration, emergency response and border management.
The latest evacuation brings the number of Nigerians returned from South Africa to more than three hundred, following the arrival of the first batch of two hundred and fifty-eight evacuees earlier this month.
NiDCOM said President Bola Tinubu approved the evacuation as part of the government’s commitment to the safety and welfare of Nigerians living overseas. The commission added that officials of the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa accompanied the returnees throughout the process.
Authorities said the evacuation highlights the need for stronger consular support, improved migration management and timely intervention for Nigerians facing difficulties abroad.
To support reintegration, the returnees received assistance packages from government agencies, private organisations and individuals. Imo State indigenes among the group received financial support from the state government, while other donations included cash assistance, data support and welfare packages.
Speaking on behalf of NiDCOM Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Dipo Onabowale said the government is addressing logistical challenges encountered during the first evacuation and assured that efforts are ongoing to bring home all registered Nigerians.
The returnees expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and supporting organisations, describing the intervention as a demonstration of concern for the welfare of Nigerians regardless of their location.
