President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the evacuation of stranded Nigerians from South Africa, with a second batch of returnees arriving at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at about 8:50 pm on Wednesday, June 24.
The exercise reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to the safety and welfare of citizens abroad.
The first batch of 258 returnees had arrived earlier on June 11, 2026, via a chartered Air Peace flight.
This latest operation brought home 66 returnees, facilitated by Value Jet Chairman and CEO, Otunba Kunle Soname. Officials from the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa accompanied the passengers.
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Upon arrival, the returnees expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his swift approval, to Otunba Soname for his humanitarian support, and to key officials including Acting High Commissioner Amb. Temitope Ajayi and Hon. Dabiri‑Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM).
Agencies such as NEMA, the Refugee Commission, FAAN, Immigration, and security operatives were also present to provide immediate assistance.
Speaking on behalf of NIDCOM’s leadership, Mr. Dipo Onabowale commended Tinubu’s citizen‑centred approach and noted that logistical challenges from the first evacuation are being addressed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Odumegwu‑Ojukwu, who assured that all registered Nigerians will be evacuated.
NIDCOM announced welcome packages for the returnees. Imo State indigenes received ₦1,000,000 each from Governor Hope Uzodinma.
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MTN Nigeria distributed free SIM packs with data worth ₦50,000 and credited ₦100,000 to each returnee’s account.
Pastor Bolaji Idowu of Harvesters International Christian Centre also donated ₦100,000 per person.
The returnees described the reception and donations as a clear testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians, both at home and abroad.
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