The Federal Government has announced the final phase of its evacuation programme for Nigerians stranded in South Africa, urging citizens who feel unsafe to take advantage of the remaining flights home.
The government said the security situation in South Africa remains volatile, with no clear sign that the recent wave of xenophobic attacks is easing. It warned that it may no longer be able to guarantee the safety of Nigerians who choose to remain despite the ongoing violence.
The latest advisory follows the reported killing of two Nigerians in South Africa. The Federal Government has demanded a thorough investigation into the incidents and the prosecution of those responsible.
It also extended the evacuation exercise beyond the initial June 30 deadline to allow more affected citizens to return safely. Meanwhile, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a four-day ultimatum to South African business interests operating in Nigeria to leave the country.
NANS warned that if the ultimatum expires without action, it would mobilise nationwide protests and picketing of South African businesses. The student body also called on the Federal Government and the African Union to take stronger diplomatic measures in response to the continued attacks on Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa.
