Nigeria has begun preparations to facilitate the voluntary return of its citizens living in South Africa, as concerns grow over renewed xenophobic tensions and sporadic attacks targeting foreign nationals in the country.

According to Nigerian authorities, the initiative allows citizens who wish to return home to register through diplomatic missions, with arrangements being made for assisted repatriation flights in the coming weeks.

Officials emphasized that the process is strictly voluntary and not a forced evacuation. The move is aimed at ensuring the safety of Nigerian nationals who feel increasingly vulnerable amid rising anti-immigrant sentiment in parts of South Africa.

Initial figures suggest that dozens of Nigerians have already expressed interest in returning, though no large-scale evacuation has been announced.

The decision comes against a backdrop of recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa, where foreign nationals have previously been targeted during outbreaks of unrest linked to unemployment, crime concerns, and economic pressure.

Nigerian authorities said they are monitoring the situation closely and maintaining diplomatic engagement with South African officials to ensure the protection of their citizens.

The Nigerian government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding its diaspora while also working with South African authorities to prevent escalation and ensure the safety of foreign residents.

Officials stressed that diplomatic channels remain open, and that the voluntary return scheme is a precautionary measure rather than a sign of a mass evacuation.

While concerns have been raised publicly, officials indicated that the number of citizens currently seeking return remains limited, with registrations still ongoing through embassies and consulates.