Over 1,000 Nigerians in South Africa have registered for voluntary return amid rising anti-migrant tensions. Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry stated that officials have begun screening applicants. Nigerian and South African authorities will jointly determine eligibility for the programme.
This process follows a recent surge in anti-migrant protests in South Africa. Certain groups have targeted undocumented foreign nationals, blaming them for unemployment, crime, and strain on public services.
South African authorities have agreed to waive penalties for certain immigration offences, such as visa overstays. Nigerians facing criminal charges remain ineligible for the return programme.
Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry, stated that the final number has not yet been confirmed. “Total figure not out yet,” he said. “We are expecting over a thousand persons.”
Several African governments have taken steps to protect their citizens in South Africa. Ghana recently repatriated approximately 300 nationals to Accra, with more expected. Ethiopia is preparing to assist citizens wishing to leave, according to Nigerian officials.
Kenya, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe have also advised their citizens to exercise caution in South Africa.
Anti-immigrant sentiment has increased in parts of the country this year. Some protests have become violent. Migrants report that groups have gone door to door, demanding foreign nationals leave.
Protesters accuse migrants of taking jobs and committing crimes. Rights groups and analysts contend that these claims scapegoat foreigners for broader issues such as unemployment, poverty, and inadequate policing.
An anti-immigrant group has reportedly issued an ultimatum for undocumented migrants to leave by 30 June. This has raised concerns about further violence.
In May, reports indicated that five Ethiopian migrants were killed in Johannesburg. In June, Mozambique reported that five of its nationals died during anti-immigrant violence in the Western Cape.
South African officials have condemned the attacks and pledged action against xenophobic violence.
South Africa remains a primary destination for migrants in Africa. Official statistics show that over three million foreign nationals reside in the country, comprising about 5.1% of the population. More than 63% are from countries within the 16-member Southern African Development Community.
The current tensions have revived memories of previous attacks on foreign nationals. In May 2008, violence began in Alexandra township near Johannesburg and spread nationwide. At least 62 people died, more than 670 were injured, and over 100,000 were displaced.
Many victims were from Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Malawi, and Somalia.
For many Nigerians and other African migrants, the decision to return home is driven by more than immigration status. It reflects fear, uncertainty, and the pursuit of safety and dignity. South Africa now faces the challenge of enforcing immigration laws without allowing violence, intimidation, or mob action to shape its response.
