Dabiri-Erewa sympathised with the returnees over the hardships experienced during the crisis and conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s reassurance of government support
By Moses Okorie
As African countries are evacuating their citizens living in South Africa over the xenophobia threat in that country, Air Peace said it has concluded the Federal Government’s humanitarian evacuation with the return of the final batch of 308 Nigerians aboard its Boeing 777-200 aircraft.
Speaking in a release issued on Wednesday, in Lagos, Air Peace spokesperson, Mr. Efe Osifo-Whiskey, said the final flight increased the total number of evacuees to 1,393 Nigerians transported across five successful humanitarian evacuation missions.
According to him, the final evacuation flight arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Wednesday, marking the successful completion of the operation.
He also revealed that the aircraft docked at the Cargo and Hajj Terminal, officially bringing the Federal Government’s coordinated humanitarian mission with Air Peace to a close.
“The operation represents another milestone in Nigeria’s humanitarian response to the security situation affecting Nigerians in South Africa.
“The exercise also demonstrated the importance of strong public-private collaboration in protecting the welfare and safety of Nigerian citizens abroad.
“From the commencement of the operation, Air Peace deployed its Boeing 777-200 wide-body aircraft across five dedicated evacuation missions, safely airlifting 1,393 Nigerians.
“Each evacuation flight carried families back to loved ones, restored hope to those displaced by uncertainty and reaffirmed that Nigerians can rely on their nation,” he said.
He disclosed that the returnees were received by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission Chief Executive Officer, Dr Abike Dabiri-Erewa, alongside senior immigration officials.
Osifo-Whiskey said the officials welcomed the evacuees on behalf of the Federal Government and assured them of continued support.
Dabiri-Erewa sympathised with the returnees over the hardships experienced during the crisis and conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s reassurance of government support.
She affirmed the administration’s commitment to the returnees’ reintegration and overall welfare following their arrival in Nigeria.
Dabiri-Erewa commended everyone involved in the evacuation and expressed appreciation to Air Peace and its Chairman, Dr Allen Onyema.
Air Peace reaffirmed its commitment to supporting government-led humanitarian initiatives, connecting Nigerians beyond destinations and providing hope during periods of uncertainty.