Third batch of 298 Nigerians returnees was evacuated in compliance with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for the immediate evacuation of stranded Nigerians in South Africa back to the country.

This third evacuation was facilitated and funded by President Tinubu, who has vowed to ensure the safe return of stranded Nigerians who are willing to come home.

This batch, consisting of 298 returnees, arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport aboard Air Peace Airlines, and were accompanied by officials from the Nigerian Embassy in South Africa.

The returnees expressed their gratitude to President Bola Tinubu; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu; Acting High Commissioner, South Africa, Ambassador Temitope Alexander-Ajayi; and Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, whose staff were on hand to receive them, and announced some financial support.

The returnees from Imo State, courtesy of Gov. Hope Uzodinma, received one million naira each, while MTN donated free SIM packs (with data) worth N50,000 and N100,000 to be paid to the bank account of all the returnees.

Edo and Delta state officials were present to receive the returnees from the respective states and affirmed the resolve of their governors in easing reintegration experience for the returnees.

Meanwhile, the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has commended Air Peace and the Federal Government for the successful evacuation of the returnees.

She described the operation as a remarkable demonstration of patriotism, compassion and commitment to national service.

The latest operation brings the total number of Nigerians evacuated by the airline to 533 in separate missions.

According to the airline, the exercise marked its 16th humanitarian and evacuation mission, reflecting its longstanding commitment to assisting Nigerians during emergencies and national crises.

Reacting to the development, Akpoti-Uduaghan praised the airline’s management and staff for prioritising national interest over commercial considerations.

The lawmaker described the evacuation as proof that no Nigerian should be abandoned in moments of distress.

Akpoti-Uduaghan commended the collaboration between Air Peace and the Federal Government, noting that such partnerships strengthen public confidence and improve Nigeria’s capacity to respond to humanitarian emergencies.