The Federal Government evacuated another 83 Nigerians from South Africa amid rising anti-foreigner sentiments and reported Afrophobic attacks in the country.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that the returnees were expected to arrive at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, on Wednesday, August 19, after departing Oliver Tambo Airport, Johannesburg, aboard South African Airways.

The latest evacuation was facilitated through the intervention and sponsorship of air tickets by private individuals. The government expressed appreciation to the sponsors for helping Nigerians affected by the situation.

The development followed the conclusion of the government’s voluntary repatriation programme, which had seen nearly 1,490 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa over concerns about attacks and discrimination against foreigners.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the Federal Government remained committed to protecting the welfare and dignity of Nigerians living abroad. It also said diplomatic engagement with South Africa would continue in an effort to tackle the causes of Afrophobia and prevent further attacks and discrimination.

The government further called on private organisations, state governments and well-meaning Nigerians to support efforts aimed at responding to consular emergencies and protecting Nigerians abroad.