Stranded Nigerians Face Hardship in South Africa Amid Repatriation Delays

Hundreds of Nigerians awaiting voluntary evacuation from South Africa are facing severe hardship, including hunger and homelessness, following delays in the second phase of a government-backed repatriation program.

The affected citizens, including women, children, and the elderly, traveled from various provinces to registration and screening centers. Many have now exhausted their savings and are stranded without adequate food, shelter, or transportation.

The Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA) has expressed deep concern over the situation, noting that some individuals have been forced to sleep outdoors in freezing weather while awaiting updates on departure schedules. The association urged the government to expedite the remaining evacuation flights and deploy immediate humanitarian assistance.

The repatriation effort follows heightened anti-immigrant sentiment and a pending June 30 deadline issued by local protest groups targeting undocumented foreigners. Fears have intensified among migrant communities after local policy adjustments prompted employers in sectors like manufacturing and agriculture to dismiss undocumented workers, leaving many abruptly homeless.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs previously confirmed that a first batch of 258 Nigerians successfully returned to Lagos on June 11. However, with nearly 1,000 citizens registered for the voluntary program, over 740 individuals remain in South Africa awaiting transport.

Government officials have assured those registered that evacuations will be completed before the end of the month, as tactical arrangements continue to bring the remaining citizens safely home.