By The Federal Government has announced that 271 Nigerian nationals in South Africa have been cleared to return home under the third phase of its government-arranged special repatriation exercise.
The public notice signed by Amb. (Mrs.) Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, mni, Consul General, was issued by the Nigeria High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg. The notice stated that special flight will depart from OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg, in the early hours of Friday, July 3, 2026.
According to the notice, the 271 Nigerians constitute the third batch of returnees approved to travel after completing the required screening process.
The diplomatic missions directed all cleared passengers to assemble at the Nigeria High Commission in Pretoria, located at 971 Francis Baard Street, Arcadia, by 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, before proceeding to the airport.
The notice explained that transportation to the airport would be provided exclusively through buses arranged by the Nigerian missions to ensure the safety of the returnees and facilitate access to a restricted section of the airport designated for final departure procedures.
It added that joining the official buses is compulsory, warning that individuals who attempt to travel to the airport independently would not be granted access to the special processing area.
The missions also instructed travellers to present their clearance certificates alongside all documents used during screening, noting that Emergency Travel Certificates (ETCs) would be issued free of charge at the airport where necessary.
Passengers were advised to comply with the approved baggage policy, which allows adults two checked bags of up to 23 kilograms each, one carry-on bag not exceeding seven kilograms and one personal item. Minors are entitled to the same allowance, with additional provision for a collapsible pram, infant cot or infant car seat.
The Consulate General urged Nigerians awaiting evacuation to remain calm, law-abiding and avoid criminal activities while the process continues.
“All those on the list are to assemble to depart for the Airport by buses organized by the Missions… Assembling at the High Commission to join the official buses is mandatory.” the notice stated.
The notice also reassured affected Nigerians that the Federal Government remains committed to their welfare and would continue to provide the necessary support throughout the repatriation process.
”Please rest assured that your government cares deeply about you, and the High Commission and the Consulate General will not relent in our duty to protect you and look out for your welfare at all times.” the statement read.
