Nigeria to Receive 83 More Citizens Returning From South Africa

New group expected in Lagos on Wednesday amid concerns over anti-foreigner attacks

LAGOS, NIGERIA — Another group of 83 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa is expected to arrive in Lagos on Wednesday, August 19.

The Federal Government announced the planned return as concerns continue over the safety of Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa.

The returnees are expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

The latest evacuation is part of a wider response to growing concerns over xenophobic attacks and anti-foreigner sentiment in South Africa.

For the Nigerians coming home, however, the journey does not end at the airport.

Many returnees have spent years building their lives in South Africa. Some have businesses, jobs and families there.

Leaving means starting again.

The Nigerian government has repeatedly said it will protect its citizens abroad and work with South African authorities to address the situation.

The latest development is also likely to renew discussions about the relationship between Nigeria and South Africa.

The two countries are among Africa’s biggest economies and have strong business, cultural and diplomatic ties.

But relations have sometimes been strained by attacks against Nigerians and other foreigners living in South Africa.

For many Nigerians, the issue is not simply about migration.

It is about the right of Africans to live, work and build businesses peacefully in another African country.

As another 83 Nigerians prepare to return home, attention will remain on what both governments can do to prevent more people from reaching the point where leaving becomes their only option.