The Nigerian government has thanked the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) for donating $265,854 to support the evacuation of 500 Nigerians from South Africa.
The donation will fund 500 one-way air tickets for Nigerians seeking to leave the country amid concerns over xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, on Thursday.
Foreign Affairs Ministry commends RCCG
The ministry described the contribution from the church, led by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, as a significant expression of compassion and solidarity with Nigerians facing difficult circumstances in South Africa.
According to the ministry, the intervention demonstrates how partnerships between faith-based organisations and government institutions can help address urgent social challenges.
The ministry said it was particularly grateful for RCCG’s support as the funds are put toward bringing 500 distressed Nigerians back to Nigeria.
1,640 Nigerians already repatriated
The Federal Government said it has repatriated 1,640 Nigerians since June 10, 2026 as part of the ongoing evacuation effort.
Of that number:
- 1,385 Nigerians had their return fully funded by the Federal Government.
- 255 Nigerians were evacuated with financial support from philanthropic donations.
- 202 Nigerians are currently awaiting final screening by South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs before their return can be completed.
The figures highlight the scale of the government’s continuing response to Nigerians seeking to leave South Africa.
Diplomatic missions assist Nigerians seeking to return
Nigeria’s diplomatic missions in South Africa have also continued efforts to identify and assist citizens who want to return home.
The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg are working through Nigerian community associations and other established channels to reach affected Nigerians.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry said the government is simultaneously maintaining discussions with South African authorities over concerns surrounding xenophobia and Afrophobia targeting Nigerians.
Tinubu raises concern over attacks
The ministry said the government’s response forms part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 4Ds foreign-policy priorities, including efforts to protect the interests and welfare of Nigerians living abroad.
It pointed to President Tinubu’s intervention during the 21st Extraordinary Session of the African Union Assembly of Heads of State and Government, held on August 30, 2026, in Luanda, Angola.
Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima, who delivered the statement on his behalf, Tinubu expressed concern about recurring xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks in South Africa and called for urgent collective action to address the problem.
Government welcomes further partnerships
The Foreign Affairs Ministry said it remains open to collaboration with organisations and individuals willing to support Nigerians affected by crises abroad.
It specifically welcomed assistance from private organisations, philanthropists, faith-based groups and development partners, saying such partnerships can contribute to meaningful and sustainable improvements in the welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora.
The government again expressed appreciation to RCCG for its financial contribution to the current evacuation programme.