The radio airwaves, social media, and word-on-the-street was agog with condemnation for the Federal Government as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that citizens seeking repatriation from South Africa will be required to fund their own return, stressing that the process is strictly voluntary.
References were made to presidential trips, lawmakers’ allowances, other drainpipes as majority of Nigerians reacted to comments by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said during a press briefing following a meeting between Permanent Secretary Dunoma Ahmed and South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, Lesoli Machele, that the Federal Government’s role would be limited to coordination and facilitation, not financing travel.
“Those willing to leave are expected to approach the High Commission and, given that their decision is voluntary, have the resources to fund their return to Nigeria,” he said.
He added that the government would not provide transportation. “The government will not provide an aircraft from Nigeria to convey them.”
According to the ministry, about 130 Nigerians have so far indicated interest in returning home. However, their departure will depend on their ability to pay for travel.
“Yes, 130 as of this morning have registered, but actualisation would require them to have their flight tickets to move back to Nigeria,” Ebienfa said.
He noted that those seeking repatriation fall into two categories: individuals who feel unsafe despite having valid documentation, and others with immigration or residency violations seeking an orderly return.
“There are two groups of Nigerians who want to come back. One group feels the country is not safe for them and wants to return. They have all their papers intact.
“Then there is also the second group that has travel document violations or resident permit issues. Instead of evading law enforcement, they are appealing for government-facilitated return,” he added.
The development comes amid renewed tensions and anti-immigration protests in parts of South Africa, particularly in major urban centres such as Pretoria and Johannesburg. The unrest has heightened concerns over the safety of foreign nationals, including Nigerians.
Recent reports indicate that two Nigerians were killed in separate incidents allegedly involving South African security personnel, further escalating diplomatic concerns.
In response, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, summoned South Africa’s envoy to demand a thorough investigation, including autopsy reports and accountability for the incidents.
Nigerian authorities say they are engaging with South African officials to ensure the safety of citizens while closely monitoring the evolving situation, as concerns persist and the number of those seeking to return home may rise.
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