RCCG Supports Return of 500 Nigerians Stranded in South Africa

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has stepped up its humanitarian response to Nigerians facing difficult circumstances in South Africa by providing funding to support the return of 500 nationals to Nigeria.

The church committed $265,854 towards the purchase of one-way air tickets for Nigerians who have been documented and cleared for repatriation. The intervention followed an appeal from the Nigerian diplomatic mission in South Africa and was approved by RCCG General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. 

The first phase of the initiative has already begun. A group of 105 Nigerians arrived in Lagos on September 24, with 100 of their tickets funded through the RCCG donation. The returnees included adults and children and were received by Nigerian government agencies before undergoing profiling and arrangements for onward travel to their respective states. 

Importantly, the support is not limited to RCCG members. Church officials have stated that Nigerians from different religious backgrounds are eligible, provided they have completed the necessary documentation and clearance process through the Nigerian diplomatic mission and South African authorities. 

The RCCG is covering the cost of air travel from Johannesburg to Lagos, while government agencies are responsible for receiving the returnees, completing their documentation and supporting their onward movement within Nigeria.

The intervention comes as Nigeria continues efforts to assist citizens seeking to leave South Africa amid concerns over reported xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks. The Federal Government has been conducting its own evacuation programme since June, with faith-based organisations and private donors also contributing to the effort. 

For the RCCG, the initiative places practical action alongside prayer and compassion. By extending assistance beyond its own membership, the church’s intervention highlights the role faith communities can play in responding to humanitarian situations and supporting people in vulnerable circumstances.

As further batches complete the required screening and documentation, the repatriation programme is expected to continue.