The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the consulate general in Johannesburg have announced plans to repatriate 271 Nigerians from South Africa on Wednesday.

According to a statement and list of beneficiaries released on Monday by the consul general, Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, the fourth special repatriation flight will depart from O.R. Tambo Airport in Johannesburg in the early hours of the scheduled date.

Those who will form the fourth batch of returnees for the government-arranged special repatriation flight will receive direct phone calls to inform them,” the statement said.

The consul general stated that all returnees are to assemble at the embassy in Pretoria by 10:00 a..m. on Tuesday, ahead of schedule.

The consulate urged the Nigerians to assemble for transportation by buses provided by the missions to ensure safe passage to the airport and access to a special restricted area designated for final departure processing.

It warned that individuals who travel independently will not be granted access to the restricted area and will be unable to complete the departure formalities.

Ms Okey-Uche stated, “All those on the list are to assemble to depart for the airport by buses organised by the missions. This is to ensure safe passage and access to the special restricted area of the airport, where our nationals will be processed for departure.”

“Assembling at the high commission to join the official buses is mandatory. No one is permitted to go independently, as they will not have access to the special area of the airport used for the final processing exercise. Furthermore, this is the only way to guarantee your safety en route to the airport.”

The consulate urged all Nigerians scheduled for the evacuation flight to bring the clearance certificates issued after their successful screening, along with all other documents submitted during screening, particularly consent forms for minors.

The consul general urged all returnees to strictly comply with the approved baggage allowance, which permits each adult to travel with two checked bags weighing up to 23 kilogrammes each, one carry-on bag weighing up to seven kilograms and one personal item.

She noted that minors are entitled to the same allowance, plus a collapsible pram, an infant cot or car seat.

“We implore all our nationals to remain patient, calm, stay safe and be law-abiding, by staying away from crime and criminals, in order to uphold and protect the good name of our beloved country, Nigeria,” Ms Okey-Uche said. “Please, rest assured that your government cares deeply about you, and the high commission and the consulate general will not relent in our duty to protect you and look out for your welfare at all times.”