By Fatima Saka
The Federal Government has expressed appreciation to the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) for donating $265,854 to support the evacuation of 500 distressed Nigerians from South Africa amid renewed xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, said the donation would cover the purchase of 500 one-way tickets for Nigerians seeking to return home from South Africa.
The ministry described the gesture by the RCCG, led by Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, as a demonstration of compassion, solidarity and commitment to providing relief to stranded Nigerians affected by xenophobia and Afrophobia.
It said the donation also underscored the positive impact that collaboration between faith-based organisations and public institutions could have in addressing social challenges and promoting the common good.
The Federal Government commenced the evacuation of distressed Nigerians from South Africa on June 10, 2026, following a new wave of xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks targeting Africans and other nationals in the country.
According to the ministry, 1,640 Nigerians have so far been evacuated, with the Federal Government sponsoring the return of 1,385, while philanthropic donations covered the evacuation of the remaining 255.
The ministry disclosed that 202 Nigerians are currently awaiting final screening by South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs before they can be evacuated to Nigeria.
It added that the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg remain engaged with Nigerian community associations and other established channels to assist citizens who wish to return home because of the attacks.
The Federal Government also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare of Nigerians in the Diaspora and addressing xenophobia and Afrophobia through sustained diplomatic engagement with South African authorities.
READ ALSO: I-G Disu Commends 24 Lagos SCID Retirees After 35 Years of Service
NEDC Warns Public Against Fake MSc Education Support Fund
The ministry cited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s intervention 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, where he expressed concern over recurring xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks in South Africa and called for urgent collective action.
The Federal Government further welcomed partnerships with private organisations, philanthropists, faith-based organisations and development partners whose interventions can contribute to the welfare and protection of Nigerians abroad.
About The Author
1 thought on “FG Hail’s RCCG Donation of $265,854 Evacuating 500 Distressed Nigerians from South Africa”