The Federal Government has successfully evacuated another 271 Nigerian nationals from South Africa as efforts continue to bring home citizens affected by the ongoing anti-immigrant protests in the country.

The latest batch of evacuees arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Friday morning aboard a flight arranged by the Federal Government.

The operation marks the fourth evacuation exercise conducted since anti-immigrant demonstrations intensified in South Africa, prompting many Nigerians and other foreign nationals to seek assistance to return home.

The protests were reportedly sparked by demands from some South African groups calling for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country. The protesters accused illegal immigrants of taking employment opportunities from citizens and contributing to criminal activities.

The unrest has heightened concerns about the safety and welfare of many Nigerians living in South Africa, prompting the Nigerian government to intensify efforts to facilitate the voluntary return of those willing to come back home.

With the arrival of the latest group, the total number of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa since the exercise began has risen to 874.

The Federal Government has continued to assure Nigerians abroad of its commitment to protecting their welfare and providing necessary assistance during emergencies, while also maintaining diplomatic engagement with South African authorities over the safety of Nigerian citizens residing in the country.