June 11, 2026
A group of Nigerian returnees from South Africa have recounted harrowing experiences of alleged xenophobia, extortion, discrimination and intimidation, urging fellow Nigerians still residing in the country to consider returning home.
One of the returnees, Mr. Chukwuemeka Chris Okeke, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian government and individuals who facilitated their return, saying the situation in South Africa had become unbearable for many African migrants.
“There is no place like home. We are passing through a lot in South Africa. I really appreciate our President and others who supported in bringing us back home. I thank our government so much. May God bless Nigerians,” he said.
Another returnee named Emmanuel Nwachukwu, alleged that hostility towards foreigners, particularly Nigerians, had intensified in parts of South Africa, claiming that some groups had threatened violence against African migrants who refused to leave the country.
