Nigerians stranded in South Africa have staged a protest at the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria over significant delays in the repatriation process. The demonstrators, many of whom registered for voluntary evacuation amid rising anti-immigrant tensions and a looming June 30 deadline set by local groups, expressed deep frustration at the slow pace of arrangements to return them home.

With reports indicating that only one flight has successfully brought a batch of citizens back to Nigeria so far, hundreds of affected individuals remain uncertain about their departure dates and feel increasingly vulnerable. The situation escalated on Monday, June 22, as protesters gathered outside the commission, chanting their desire to leave and highlighting hardships such as lack of adequate shelter and food.

Many have been relying on church assistance while sleeping on streets. Nigerian authorities had earlier assured citizens that no one willing to return would be abandoned, yet the second batch, initially planned for mid-June, faced postponement due to operational reasons. This has heightened anxiety among the registrants, especially as safety concerns mount in parts of South Africa.

The Federal Government, through relevant agencies including the Nigerian Diaspora Commission, maintains that repatriation efforts are ongoing and not canceled. Officials emphasize commitment to completing the process by the end of the month despite logistical challenges. Ambassador Chimezie Okechukwu and other representatives have appealed for calm, noting that screening and coordination with South African authorities require time. However, the protesters demand faster action to alleviate their precarious conditions.

This development underscores the broader challenges of protecting Nigerian nationals abroad during periods of xenophobic unrest. As debates continue both in South Africa and back home, many observers call for improved coordination and transparency to ensure the timely and dignified return of all registered citizens.