A total of 67 Nigerians returning from South Africa have arrived in Lagos following concerns over xenophobic attacks and growing anti-migrant tensions in the country.
The returnees arrived at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport aboard South African Airways at about 8:45 p.m. on Wednesday.
They were received by representatives of Federal Government agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons.
Alex Oturu, the South-West coordinator of NEMA, said the latest return was facilitated with support from well-meaning Nigerians who provided assistance, including funds for flight tickets.
The development follows the return of another 83 Nigerians from South Africa the previous Thursday.
Migrants Leave South Africa Amid Violence
South Africa has remained a major destination for migrants from across the continent. However, concerns over attacks targeting foreigners have prompted thousands of migrants to leave the country.
More than 176,000 people have reportedly departed in recent weeks, according to an AFP tally based on figures supplied by African countries that have repatriated their citizens.
South African police have reported that at least four migrants have died in the violence, although some foreign governments have put the number of fatalities higher.
The recurring attacks have also generated diplomatic concerns across Africa. Ghana, which has strongly condemned the violence, has called for the African Union to discuss anti-migrant attacks at its next summit early next year.
Nigeria has similarly pushed for the issue to be placed on the AU agenda, following repeated diplomatic tensions with South Africa over attacks against Nigerians and other African migrants.
The latest return of Nigerian citizens underscores continuing concerns over the safety of foreigners living and working in South Africa.
