A fresh batch of 67 Nigerians repatriated from South Africa arrived at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos on Wednesday night.
South African Airways brought the returnees into the country as part of a repatriation effort facilitated by a group of private individuals.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the philanthropic group had earlier supported the return of 83 Nigerians from South Africa.
Speaking to the returnees on behalf of the group, Mr Ikem Ume-Ezeoke and Chief Charles Mba urged them to embrace a fresh start and contribute positively to society.
The philanthropists also presented N50,000 each to the 67 returnees to support their reintegration.
Mba, a businessman and philanthropist, urged the returnees to uphold their responsibilities as citizens and comply with regulations set by relevant government agencies.
He assured them that their experiences in South Africa should not prevent them from rebuilding their lives and pursuing opportunities in Nigeria.
According to him, “no hope is lost”, particularly for the children among the returnees, who should be encouraged to look ahead and pursue their aspirations.
Ume-Ezeoke, the group’s coordinator, commended previous efforts by the Federal Government to support Nigerians returning from abroad.
He urged the returnees to explore opportunities available in Nigeria and contribute to the country’s development.
Ume-Ezeoke said Nigeria had significant potential that could be harnessed by the returnees as they begin the next phase of their lives.
