Children onboard the Air Peace Boeing 777-200 with immigration officials and other government functionaries during the airline's third humanitarian evacuation mission from South Africa to Nigeria on July 3, 2026.
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Air Peace has completed its third humanitarian evacuation mission from South Africa, bringing home 268 Nigerians in partnership with the Federal Government. The latest operation raises the total number of citizens evacuated to 801 across three missions. The exercise followed renewed xenophobia-related tensions affecting Nigerians in South Africa.

Xenophobia evacuation reaches 801 Nigerians

The special evacuation flight was operated with the airline’s Boeing 777-200 wide-body aircraft. Air Peace said the deployment highlighted its long-haul capability and continued support for government-led humanitarian interventions. The mission also reflected ongoing efforts to ensure the voluntary and safe return of Nigerians affected by the crisis.

The airline confirmed that 262 Nigerians were evacuated on June 11. Another 271 citizens returned on June 30. Meanwhile, the latest operation on July 3 brought home an additional 268 Nigerians, taking the total number of evacuees to 801 across three humanitarian missions.

Air Peace described the latest milestone as another demonstration of its commitment to national service. The airline said it remains prepared to respond quickly whenever Nigerians require assistance outside the country. It added that its partnership with the Federal Government continues to support timely humanitarian operations.

Xenophobia
Nigerian returnees disembark the Air Peace Boeing 777-200 after arriving from South Africa due to xenophobia attacks. Following the successful completion of the airline’s third humanitarian evacuation mission, Air Peace brought home 268 citizens.

“With the successful completion of today’s operation, Air Peace has now safely evacuated a total of 801 Nigerians across three humanitarian missions, following the airlift of 262 Nigerians on June 11, 271 on June 30, and 268 on July 3,” the airline said.

The carrier stated that its role extends beyond transporting passengers between destinations. According to the airline, each evacuation mission reconnects Nigerians with their families while providing hope during periods of uncertainty. In addition, it said the latest operation demonstrates its commitment to protecting the welfare of Nigerian citizens.

Air Peace also highlighted its wider humanitarian record across Africa and beyond. The airline noted that it has carried out more than 16 humanitarian and evacuation missions since it began operations. These missions have included emergency repatriations, crisis responses and other national interventions requiring rapid deployment of aircraft and operational resources.

The airline reaffirmed its commitment to supporting national priorities through safe and reliable air transport. “As Nigeria’s flagship private airline, Air Peace remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting national priorities, connecting people safely, and ensuring that whenever Nigerians need a way home, the airline stands ready to answer the call,” it said.

The latest evacuation further strengthens Air Peace’s position as one of Nigeria’s leading carriers in humanitarian operations. Therefore, the airline says it will continue working with the Federal Government whenever the need arises, ensuring stranded Nigerians can return home safely during emergencies like what happened with the xenophobia attacks in South Africa.

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