The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has received the first batch of 262 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa following an intervention approved and fully funded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
According to an official signed statement by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), the returnees were airlifted from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg aboard an Air Peace evacuation flight and arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at approximately 10:15 a.m. on Thursday.
The evacuees were received by the Honourable Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, and the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NIDCOM, Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, OON.
Speaking during the reception, Dr. Dabiri-Erewa commended President Tinubu for his swift intervention and commitment to the welfare of Nigerians abroad.
She said the Federal Government remained deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of Nigerians in South Africa and would continue to provide support to citizens affected by the situation.
“President Tinubu has demonstrated exemplary leadership by ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind in times of distress. We stand ready to support these returnees as they resettle and rebuild their lives,” she stated.
The NIDCOM Chairman also announced several support measures aimed at facilitating the reintegration of the returnees.
According to her, the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma, has approved the payment of ₦1 million to each Imo State indigene among the evacuees to assist their resettlement.
She further disclosed that MTN Nigeria has donated ₦100,000 to each returnee, with the funds to be transferred directly into their respective bank accounts.
In addition, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) will fast-track the issuance of National Identification Numbers (NIN) to all evacuated Nigerians to facilitate access to government services and other opportunities.
The returnees are currently undergoing mandatory documentation and profiling procedures at the airport as part of efforts to ensure a seamless reintegration process.
NIDCOM urged Nigerians in the diaspora to remain law-abiding and peaceful while assuring that the Federal Government would continue engaging South African authorities to address the issues that led to the tensions affecting Nigerians in the country.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the interests and welfare of Nigerians abroad and ensuring that citizens facing difficulties receive the necessary support and assistance.
