Aircraft Fault Delays Fourth Evacuation Flight for Nigerians Leaving South Africa

The Federal Government has postponed the fourth evacuation flight for Nigerians returning from South Africa after a technical fault was detected on the aircraft scheduled for the operation. The delay affects 270 Nigerians who had volunteered to return home amid rising anti migrant tensions and security concerns in South Africa.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Air Peace aircraft was grounded in Johannesburg after cracks were discovered on the cockpit windscreen during routine pre-flight checks. Officials stressed that passenger safety could not be compromised and confirmed that a replacement aircraft would be deployed to complete the evacuation.

The affected passengers have been accommodated in hotels while awaiting a new departure schedule. The ministry apologised for the inconvenience and assured returnees that the disruption is temporary, with arrangements already underway to resume the evacuation as soon as possible.

The latest delay comes as Nigeria continues repatriating citizens who have chosen to leave South Africa following a wave of xenophobic incidents. While the evacuation has suffered an unexpected setback, authorities say the operation remains on course, underscoring the government’s commitment to bringing stranded Nigerians home safely.