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The Federal Government has revealed that the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), headed by Pastor Enoch Adeboye, contributed $265,854 to fund the evacuation of 500 Nigerians from South Africa amid a surge in xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced this in a press release on September 3, 2026, through spokesperson Oluwafemi Adeniyi.

The government had previously acknowledged RCCG's role in sponsoring the evacuation of 255 Nigerians, but it did not previously disclose the amount or the church's involvement. The RCCG's donation was described as a "demonstration of compassion and solidarity" with Nigerians facing xenophobia and Afrophobia in South Africa, emphasizing the vital role of faith-based organizations in addressing humanitarian crises.

The ministry stated that the contribution will be utilized in collaboration with RCCG's leadership in South Africa to facilitate the return of the 500 Nigerians. The ministry also welcomed partnerships with private organizations, philanthropists, faith-based groups, and other stakeholders committed to supporting Nigerians living abroad.

The evacuation has expanded to 1,640 returnees, with 1,385 fully sponsored by the Federal Government and 255 evacuated through philanthropic support. The Foreign Affairs Ministry figures show that the exercise has faced strained diplomatic relations between Nigeria and South Africa due to renewed xenophobic tensions. However, the economic relationship remains robust, with South Africa being Nigeria's largest source of African imports in Q1 2026, with goods valued at N155.26 billion, an 18.2% increase from N131.32 billion in Q4 2025.