The President of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa, Frank Onyekwelu, has revealed that more than 130 Nigerians have registered for voluntary repatriation from South Africa, citing rising xenophobic attacks as a key factor.
Onyekwelu made the disclosure on Thursday during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief.
“As we speak, the number has exceeded 130. In addition, there are other Nigerian citizens who have applied for voluntary and free repatriation,” he said.
His remarks come in the wake of escalating xenophobic incidents in South Africa, which have reportedly claimed the lives of two Nigerians and heightened tensions within Nigerian communities in the country.
The Federal Government had said it commenced arrangements to evacuate Nigerian citizens from South Africa, with at least 130 individuals already registered for voluntary repatriation flights.
READ ALSO: [Attacks] 130 Nigerians Register As FG Plans For Voluntary Repatriation Flights From South Africa
Meanwhile, the National Assembly has taken steps to address the crisis. The Senate has resolved to establish a joint ad hoc committee comprising members from both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
The committee, to be led by the Chairman of the National Assembly, is expected to conduct a fact-finding and diplomatic mission to South Africa to explore lasting solutions to the attacks.
Onyekwelu noted, however, that the reasons for the repatriation requests go beyond xenophobia.
“Many Nigerians are leaving South Africa due to economic hardship,” he explained. “Some are struggling to survive amid the high cost of living. Others face challenges with documentation, such as delays in renewing residence permits or obtaining work permits, which limit their ability to trade or gain employment.”
He also cited additional reasons why Nigerians are returning home:
“Some have worked in South Africa for two or three years but have now lost their jobs and see returning home as a better option. They can restart their lives, avoid high rental costs, and perhaps engage in small-scale farming or other livelihood activities. Others are motivated by health challenges, as treatment for foreigners has become more costly and less accessible than before,” Onyekwelu added.
