LAGOS, Nigeria — South Africa has commenced the repatriation of 586 Nigerians found to be residing in the country illegally, with the first batch of returnees arriving in Lagos on Thursday amid growing concerns over xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals.
According to South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs, a total of 586 Nigerian nationals were processed for repatriation after immigration authorities determined they were living in the country without valid documentation.
The first flight departed Johannesburg on June 11, carrying 268 passengers back to Nigeria.
Nigerian authorities confirmed that the returnees arrived safely in Lagos and were received by government officials.
The repatriation exercise comes against the backdrop of renewed anti-immigration protests and xenophobic incidents in parts of South Africa, which have prompted concerns among African governments about the safety of their citizens living in the country.
The Nigerian government had earlier disclosed that more than 1,000 citizens expressed interest in returning home following reports of attacks and intimidation directed at foreign nationals.
Officials said many Nigerians feared for their safety as tensions escalated in several communities.
South African authorities maintained that those repatriated were in the country illegally and were issued emergency travel documents by the Nigerian High Commission to facilitate their return.
Reports indicate that those processed for repatriation may face restrictions on re-entering South Africa for a specified period.
The development has added to growing diplomatic concerns across the continent, with countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Malawi, and Mozambique taking steps to assist citizens affected by the recent wave of anti-immigrant protests. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned xenophobic violence and pledged action against groups responsible for attacks on foreign nationals.
Observers say the unrest reflects deeper economic and social challenges in South Africa, where high unemployment and public frustration have fuelled hostility toward migrants.
Analysts, however, warn that blaming foreigners for the country’s difficulties risks worsening tensions and undermining regional solidarity.
Xenophobia: South Africa repatriates 586 Nigerians amid rising anti-immigrant tensions
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