The first batch of 258 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa in the wake of recent xenophobic attacks has arrived safely in Nigeria.

The returnees were received on arrival at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye.

The evacuation is part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian government to ensure the safe return of its citizens affected by rising tensions and attacks targeting foreign nationals in South Africa.

Officials at the airport oversaw the reception and coordination of the returnees, who were processed upon arrival.

Further details on subsequent evacuation batches are expected to be announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.