The Federal Government has concluded arrangements to evacuate Nigerians who wish to return home following renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said a screening exercise for Nigerians who registered for evacuation was nearing completion and would determine the final number of people eligible for the programme.

According to the ministry, the verification process is being carried out by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria alongside South African authorities, including immigration and law enforcement agencies.

Officials explained that once the exercise is completed, the government will move ahead with plans to deploy aircraft to transport the affected Nigerians back to the country.

The evacuation effort comes amid fresh anti-foreigner protests and attacks in parts of South Africa, raising concerns among migrant communities. The incidents have revived memories of previous outbreaks of xenophobic violence that have claimed lives and led to the destruction of businesses owned by foreign nationals.

South Africa remains a major destination for African migrants because of its relatively strong economy. However, tensions have periodically erupted as some locals accuse foreigners of contributing to unemployment and crime.

Reports from the latest unrest indicate that, in addition to attacks on businesses, some foreign children have also faced harassment and intimidation in schools.

The Federal Government had earlier announced plans to assist Nigerians who no longer felt safe in South Africa. Initial registrations for the evacuation programme stood at 130 people, but recent reports suggest the number of those seeking voluntary return may have risen significantly.

Authorities said further details on the evacuation operation would be released after the screening exercise is concluded and the final number of evacuees is confirmed.