Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has approved a ₦175 million support package for 86 xenophobia returnees evacuated from South Africa, including resettlement grants, monthly stipends and free medical care.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has announced a ₦175 million support package for 86 indigenes of the state who returned from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks.
The governor made the announcement on Thursday during a reception and reintegration ceremony held at the Government House in Asaba.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Johnson Erijo, Oborevwori said the intervention was aimed at helping the returnees recover from the traumatic experience and rebuild their lives.
Under the package, each returnee will receive a ₦2 million resettlement grant, while all beneficiaries will also enjoy free medical screening at state-owned health facilities.
The governor further approved monthly stipends of ₦200,000 for individual beneficiaries and ₦300,000 for families from August until May 29, 2027, to cushion the economic impact of their displacement.
Oborevwori condemned the xenophobic attacks, describing violence against fellow Africans as unacceptable and calling for greater protection of citizens living outside their home countries.
“We watched with dismay the xenophobic attacks targeted at fellow Africans in South Africa. No human being deserves to be beaten, displaced or live in fear because of their nationality,” he said.
The governor commended President Bola Tinubu for facilitating the safe evacuation of the affected Nigerians, describing the Federal Government’s intervention as swift and reassuring.
He also directed the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Services to provide trauma counselling and psychosocial support to assist the returnees in their emotional and social recovery.
Oborevwori appealed to families, friends and communities to welcome the returnees with compassion and solidarity, urging them not to allow the experience to discourage their aspirations.
“This painful experience must not deter your entrepreneurial spirit. You left with courage to seek a better life; let that same resilience and determination help you build a better future,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating economic opportunities for residents while advocating stronger protection for Nigerians living abroad.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for the Bureau for Special Duties, Mr. Terry Etacherure, praised the governor for the prompt intervention and the substantial support package.
He welcomed the returnees back to Delta State and expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for ensuring their safe evacuation from South Africa.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Jacob Agbada thanked the Delta State Government for the assistance and assured that the funds would be used responsibly to rebuild their lives and livelihoods.
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