The Federal Government has completed the screening of Nigerians who registered for evacuation from South Africa, paving the way for the final arrangements to bring them back home.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed this in a statement, noting that the exercise began on Thursday, June 4, and involved collaboration between Nigerian and South African authorities.

According to the ministry, the screening was jointly carried out by officials of the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, the South African Police Service, and immigration authorities.

The process was designed to verify the identities and eligibility of Nigerians who expressed interest in returning home amid rising security concerns in the country.

With the screening now completed, officials are expected to finalize the number of evacuees cleared for repatriation.

“The Government will subsequently conclude arrangements for the deployment of aircraft to convey the evacuees back to Nigeria,” the statement said.

The planned evacuation follows renewed xenophobic tensions and growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians and other African migrants residing in South Africa.

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad and ensuring the safe return of citizens affected by the recent wave of anti-foreigner violence.