Nigeria is set to repatriate 270 of its citizens from South Africa tonight, with a chartered flight scheduled to depart OR Tambo International Airport shortly after midnight. Ahead of the departure, Nigerian nationals gathered at the country’s embassy in Pretoria for final registration, documentation verification, and travel coordination. The repatriation initiative follows heightened tensions affecting migrant communities in South Africa.
Those preparing to depart expressed a range of emotions. While some described the decision as both difficult and hopeful, others voiced sadness at leaving behind established businesses, employment, and relationships with South African communities. Several individuals noted they had resided in South Africa for more than two decades. Conversely, some repatriating citizens expressed anticipation about reuniting with family members and exploring new opportunities in Nigeria.
A Nigerian resident who has lived in South Africa for 16 years shared his perspective during the registration process. He explained that after returning to the country in 2023 with a visa, he submitted an application for a work visa waiver in 2024, which remains pending. Citing the prolonged processing time, he decided to return home temporarily with the possibility of reapplying later. He added that he had not personally experienced tension or hostility from South African citizens, though he did not intend to minimize broader concerns affecting the migrant community.
The President of the Nigerian Union addressed systemic challenges facing undocumented migrants. He noted that many Nigerians with pending applications for various permits—including study and business visas—feel unwelcomed and wish to depart voluntarily. However, fears persist regarding South Africa’s immigration laws, which can result in arrest and fines for overstaying, even when individuals approach airports to leave voluntarily. This deterrent, he explained, has led some to remain hidden, inadvertently increasing the number of undocumented residents.
He clarified that the repatriation process includes screening to ensure individuals do not have pending criminal cases unrelated to immigration violations, as resolving such matters is considered a matter of state interest. Only those cleared of non-immigration offenses are permitted to depart under this initiative. Regarding logistical coordination, he confirmed that five repatriation flights are planned, with tonight’s departure being the first. He urged Nigerians from other provinces who traveled to Pretoria in hopes of boarding the initial flight to await further directives from the embassy and the Union to avoid being stranded.
Approximately 270 Nigerian nationals are expected to complete processing and board transportation to OR Tambo International Airport later this evening. The repatriation effort aims to facilitate voluntary departures while navigating the complex immigration framework affecting migrant communities in South Africa.
