More than 1,000 Nigerians living in South Africa have applied for voluntary repatriation amid escalating xenophobic attacks and growing anti-immigrant sentiment, raising fresh concerns over the safety of foreign nationals in Africa’s most industrialised economy.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed that 1,094 Nigerians have so far registered to return home under a government-assisted repatriation programme, marking a sharp rise from 130 applicants when the scheme was introduced barely a month ago.
Officials said Nigerian and South African authorities are conducting a joint verification exercise to determine eligibility before evacuation arrangements are concluded.
Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the screening process would ensure only qualified applicants benefit from the programme, while South African authorities have agreed to waive certain immigration-related penalties for those approved for repatriation.
The surge in applications comes as South Africa faces renewed anti-foreigner protests and violent attacks that have left several foreign nationals dead and forced hundreds to flee their homes.
The situation has revived memories of previous xenophobic outbreaks that strained diplomatic relations between Pretoria and several African countries, including Nigeria.
Recent attacks in Mossel Bay reportedly left several people dead and homes destroyed, with migrants from neighbouring countries among the victims.
South Africa’s President, Cyril Ramaphosa, has condemned the attacks and pledged stronger protection for foreign nationals, alongside plans to engage African partners on migration tensions.
Despite official assurances, critics say repeated violence and weak enforcement have failed to stop recurring xenophobic incidents.
Nigeria and South Africa have previously experienced diplomatic tensions over similar attacks, including mass evacuations of Nigerians in 2019.
Analysts warn the current wave of repatriation requests could have both economic and diplomatic consequences, as many Nigerians contribute to South Africa’s labour force and economy.
For many affected families, however, the priority remains safety as arrangements for voluntary evacuation continue.
The development highlights ongoing concerns over xenophobia in South Africa and the growing insecurity faced by African migrants in the country.
Michael Olugbode
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