By Ibrahim Salaudeen, Lagos
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has confirmed the safe arrival of the first batch of 262 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa, with Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State approving a ₦1 million support package for each Imo indigene among the returnees.
NiDCOM also disclosed that MTN Nigeria pledged ₦100,000 for each evacuee, with the funds to be credited directly into their bank accounts as part of efforts to support their reintegration.
The evacuation followed the directive of President Bola Tinubu, who approved and fully funded the Air Peace-operated rescue flight. The evacuees departed OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at about 10:15 a.m. on Thursday.
The returnees were received at the airport by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, alongside the Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
Speaking during the reception, Dabiri-Erewa commended the Federal Government for its swift intervention and praised the collaboration among relevant agencies involved in the evacuation process.
“We are deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of our brothers and sisters in South Africa. 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 said.
She further revealed that additional support measures had been put in place for the evacuees, including documentation assistance and financial interventions.
According to her, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) will fast-track the issuance of National Identity Numbers (NIN) for all returnees to ease their reintegration and access to government services.
The evacuees are currently undergoing mandatory screening, profiling, and documentation procedures at the airport.
NiDCOM also urged Nigerians living abroad to remain law-abiding while emphasizing the need for sustained diplomatic engagement with South African authorities to address the issues that led to the evacuation.
•Cover image credit: Daily Trust
