A total of 586 Nigerians have been repatriated from South Africa following renewed concerns over xenophobia and related safety challenges faced by foreign nationals.

The returnees were received by Nigerian authorities and relevant agencies upon arrival, with arrangements made to provide immediate humanitarian support and assistance for reintegration.

Officials said the evacuation was carried out in response to increasing reports of insecurity, discrimination, and difficult living conditions affecting some Nigerian residents in South Africa.

Many of the returnees reportedly left behind businesses, jobs, and personal belongings as they sought safety and stability back home.

Government agencies have assured them of support programmes aimed at easing their transition, including access to welfare services and reintegration initiatives.

The development has once again drawn attention to recurring tensions involving foreign nationals in South Africa, where incidents of xenophobic violence have been reported in past years.

Stakeholders have called for stronger diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and South Africa to address the root causes of the crisis and improve protection for migrants.

Some of the returnees expressed relief at returning home, while also highlighting the economic and emotional losses suffered during their stay abroad.

Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to monitoring the welfare of Nigerians overseas and responding promptly to any threats to their safety.