The federal government has announced that Nigerians in South Africa who wish to return home will be responsible for covering the cost of their travel.
The disclosure was made on Tuesday by Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, during a press briefing in Abuja.
According to him, the decision followed a closed-door meeting between the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dunoma Ahmed, and South Africa’s acting High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele.
Ebienfa explained that since the request for repatriation came directly from the affected Nigerians and not the government, they would bear the financial burden of their return.
He added that the government’s role would be limited to coordinating and facilitating the process to ensure a smooth evacuation.
Read Also:
- Nigerians in South Africa cry out over renewed Xenophobic attacks, demand urgent federal government intervention
- FG launches N8.5bn PPP project at Federal Government College, Kano
- Inside Deals: Why Federal Government, Atiku Are Spending Millions on US Lobbyists
The announcement comes amid growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa, following reports of xenophobic threats and attacks targeting foreign nationals.
Earlier reports indicated that about 130 Nigerians residing in South Africa had formally expressed interest in returning home due to the rising tensions.
The development has sparked discussions about the government’s responsibility toward citizens abroad, particularly during periods of crisis.
