The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that a second batch of 65 Nigerian nationals, sponsored by private individuals, is scheduled to land in Lagos on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, following recent anti-foreigner tensions in South Africa. The evacuation comes after weeks of violence and protests targeting foreign nationals in South Africa.
The Nigerian government has been coordinating the evacuation of its citizens, with the first batch having already arrived. The private sponsorship of this batch suggests that individuals and organisations are stepping in to support the government’s efforts. The Nigerian government has condemned the violence and called on South African authorities to protect foreign nationals.
The winners: the 65 returnees, who are now safe; and the Nigerian government, which has facilitated their return. The losers: those who remain in South Africa; and the Nigerian-South African relationship, which has been strained.
Bottom Line: 65 Nigerians are coming home from South Africa. The government is evacuating its citizens. The violence continues.