The first batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks has arrived in Lagos.

A total of 268 returnees landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Thursday aboard an Air Peace flight arranged by the Federal Government.

The evacuation, initially scheduled for earlier in the week, was delayed due to documentation and processing challenges before departing South Africa on Wednesday.

The repatriation follows growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians amid reports of xenophobic violence in South Africa. The Federal Government has disclosed that more than 1,000 Nigerians have indicated interest in returning home, with additional evacuation flights expected.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said Nigerian authorities worked with South African officials to facilitate the return of affected citizens, including those with unresolved immigration issues.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the evacuation exercise underscores the government’s commitment to protecting the welfare and interests of Nigerians abroad.