The Federal Government of Nigeria has formally expressed its appreciation to the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) for donating $265,854 to assist in the evacuation of distressed Nigerian nationals stranded in South Africa amidst recurring xenophobic and Afrophobic hostility.
In an official statement released in Abuja, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Oluwafemi Adeniyi announced that the humanitarian contribution, made under the leadership of RCCG General Overseer Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, will directly fund 500 one-way flight tickets for citizens seeking voluntary repatriation back home.
Adeniyi described the intervention as a vital act of civic and spiritual leadership during a national challenge. "The government regards the donation as a significant demonstration of compassion, solidarity, and genuine commitment to providing succour to distressed and stranded citizens," Adeniyi stated. He added, "This gesture further demonstrates the impact that collaboration between faith-based organisations and public institutions can have in addressing social challenges and advancing the common good."
The government’s ongoing emergency repatriation effort, which officially commenced on June 10, 2026, has brought home a total of 1,640 Nigerian citizens to date. Official records show that 1,385 of these returnees were fully sponsored by the Federal Government, while philanthropic partners funded the remaining 255. Currently, another 202 Nigerians are awaiting final immigration clearance from South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs before being airlifted.
Nigeria's High Commission in Pretoria and Consulate General in Johannesburg continue actively working alongside Nigerian community groups to coordinate logistical support. On the diplomatic front, Adeniyi noted that President Bola Tinubu underscored the urgency of resolving these hostilities during his address at the 21st Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union in Luanda, Angola, on August 30, 2026.
Reiterating its commitment to international diaspora welfare, the Foreign Affairs Ministry emphasised that it remains eager to build impactful partnerships with private institutions, faith organisations, and development partners to protect Nigerians abroad.
