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Nigeria Delays First Evacuation Flight from South Africa by Two Days, Extends Screening
The federal government postponed the initial airlift of Nigerian citizens from Johannesburg after logistical issues arose. Five flights operated by Air Peace remain approved.
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The federal government of Nigeria has rescheduled the first evacuation flight carrying citizens from South Africa to Wednesday, 10 June 2026. The original departure had been set for Monday, 8 June 2026. Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced the change in a statement on Monday.
He attributed the delay to unforeseen logistical considerations. President Bola Tinubu approved five evacuation flights that Air Peace will operate. The first flight is expected to carry about 270 passengers and will depart Johannesburg on the evening of 10 June 2026, once all permits and clearances are secured.
The government also extended the screening period for citizens seeking evacuation until Wednesday. More than 500 persons have already been screened and cleared, according to Ebienfa. "I received confirmation from our mission in Pretoria that the screening exercise of Nigerian nationals, who have indicated interest to be evacuated back home, has been extended to Wednesday," Ebienfa said.
The rescheduling follows recent xenophobic attacks against Black residents in South Africa that prompted the evacuation plan.
