The Federal Government has expressed appreciation to the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) for donating $265,854 to support the evacuation of distressed Nigerians from South Africa.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the donation would fund 500 one-way tickets for Nigerians seeking to return home amid reported xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja.
He described the contribution by the RCCG, led by Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, as a significant demonstration of compassion and solidarity with Nigerians facing difficulties in South Africa.
Adeniyi said the Federal Government began the ongoing evacuation exercise on June 10, 2026, following a fresh wave of attacks targeting Africans and other nationals in South Africa.
According to him, 1,640 Nigerians have so far been evacuated, with the government funding the return of 1,385 people, while private donations covered the evacuation of the remaining 255.
He added that 202 Nigerians were currently awaiting final screening by South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs before their evacuation.
The ministry said Nigeria’s diplomatic missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg were continuing to assist Nigerians who wished to return home while engaging South African authorities over the reported attacks.
The Federal Government also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare of Nigerians living abroad and welcomed further partnerships with faith-based organisations, philanthropists and other stakeholders to support citizens in distress.
