Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Nigeria Begins Voluntary Repatriation From South Africa After Anti-Migrant Unrest

Abuja’s move signals rising pressure on Pretoria to curb violence against foreign nationals.

Overview

  • Nigeria’s foreign minister announced Sunday a voluntary return program for citizens in South Africa, with 130 people already registered to leave.
  • Following Monday’s meeting in Abuja with South Africa’s acting high commissioner, Nigeria said departures will be self-funded and coordinated through its missions.
  • The Nigerian consulate in Johannesburg warned of nationwide anti-foreigner marches set for Monday and urged Nigerians to avoid crowds and temporarily close shops.
  • Nigeria cited two April deaths of its nationals in incidents involving South African security personnel and asked for full cooperation on investigations.
  • South African officials condemned xenophobic attacks and vowed enforcement, while Ghana and Mozambique raised formal concerns and reports flagged potential protests at Mozambique’s Ressano Garcia border.