FG Sends Third Evacuation Flight From South Africa

The Federal Government has arranged a third evacuation flight bringing Nigerian citizens home from South Africa under its voluntary return programme.

The Federal Government has announced that the third evacuation flight for Nigerians returning voluntarily from South Africa will depart Johannesburg at midnight on Thursday. The flight will carry 271 returnees as part of ongoing efforts to support citizens who choose to come back home under the government’s repatriation scheme.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the development in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Mr Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa. According to the ministry, the aircraft, operated by Air Peace, is expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at about 5:30 am on Friday, 3 July 2026.

Officials said the evacuation is part of broader Nigerian evacuation flights designed to ensure the safe and voluntary return of citizens from South Africa. The ministry stressed that the process continues to focus on safeguarding the welfare of Nigerians abroad while providing organised travel support for those returning home.

“The third evacuation flight operated by Air Peace will depart Johannesburg today by 12 midnight with 271 returnees. The estimated time of arrival in Lagos is 5:30 am on Friday, July 3, 2026,” the statement read.

This latest movement follows earlier Nigerian evacuation flights that brought back several groups of citizens under the same voluntary repatriation programme. Authorities say the exercise reflects continued diplomatic coordination and humanitarian support between Nigeria and its citizens living abroad.

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all returning Nigerians are properly received and assisted upon arrival, as part of efforts to manage safe and orderly returns.

Do you think ongoing Nigerian evacuation flights are an effective way to support citizens returning from abroad?