In a major humanitarian effort, the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has stepped in to sponsor the emergency repatriation of more than 500 stranded Nigerians from Johannesburg, South Africa, back to Lagos.

 

The massive airlift intervention covers the full cost of air transportation, bringing relief to hundreds of citizens, including children and infants, who faced severe hardship abroad.

 

**A Response to an Urgent Appeal**

 

According to RCCG Chairman, Pastor Joseph Obunge, the church's intervention came directly after a distress call from the Nigerian Consulate in South Africa and stranded citizens in the country.

 

“There was an appeal from South Africa, an appeal from the consulate,” Obunge stated. “By the grace of God, our Father in the Lord acted upon that appeal because it was a plea from Nigerians who were stranded.”

 

**Welcoming the Returnees**

 

While the RCCG tasked its internal force with funding the flights, offering prayers, and encouraging the returning citizens upon their arrival in Lagos, government authorities have taken over the next phase of the operation.

 

“RCCG’s intervention covers the funding of the returnees and their air transportation from Johannesburg to Lagos. The church task force is here to welcome them upon arrival,” Obunge explained. “We shall support their orderly handover to the appropriate government agencies, who will coordinate their reception, processing, and movement to their respective destinations.”

 

The church expects the final count of returnees to exceed 500 as mothers travel with infants and young children, making it one of the most significant faith-based repatriation efforts in recent memory.