anti-immigrant protests, and attacks on foreigners. Over 1,000 Nigerians (around 1,094 as of early June 2026) have registered for the program. The Nigerian government is covering the costs, with Air Peace operating the flights. South Africa has agreed to waivers for immigration issues (except for those facing criminal charges).
Key Details:
- Screening: Completed or nearly done for hundreds of applicants (reports mention 500+ screened/cleared in some updates).
- Flights: Plans for about five flights total. The first flight (carrying roughly 270–320 people) was initially eyed for earlier in the week but rescheduled to Wednesday (June 10, 2026) due to logistical issues.
- Context: This follows renewed anti-foreigner sentiment in South Africa, with similar efforts by other countries like Ghana. Nigeria’s High Commission in Pretoria and the Foreign Ministry (spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa) are coordinating.
