Delta State Allocates ₦175 Million for South Africa Returnees and Announces Monthly Support Package
By Our Reporter.
The Delta State Government, under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced a comprehensive support plan for indigenes evacuated from South Africa amid escalating xenophobic violence. The government has approved a ₦175 million resettlement fund to assist affected families.
Under the welfare initiative, each returning family will receive a ₦2 million resettlement grant. Furthermore, the administration has committed to providing monthly stipends to aid in the victims’ recovery and reintegration.
At a formal presentation held on Friday at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, the governor revealed that individual returnees will receive ₦200,000 monthly, while each affected family will be granted ₦300,000, starting August 2026, through to the end of the governor’s first term in May 2027.
During the event, Oborevwori condemned the xenophobic attacks, emphasizing that no Nigerian should endure violence or discrimination based on nationality. He expressed sympathy for the victims, acknowledging their trauma and losses, and praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring their safe evacuation.
The governor also directed free medical screenings at state hospitals and mandated trauma counseling and psychosocial support from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Services.
He called on Deltans to show compassion towards the returnees, assuring them that their previous hardships would not dictate their future.
“Our administration remains committed to creating opportunities and upholding the dignity of all Nigerians,” Oborevwori affirmed.
Hon. Ejiro Etacherure, Commissioner for the Bureau of Special Duties, highlighted the importance of a collaborative effort between federal and state governments in supporting the victims. He urged returnees to leverage Delta’s economic opportunities for their rebuilding efforts.
Beneficiaries, represented by Mr. Jacob Agbada, expressed profound gratitude, noting that the ₦2 million grants and stipends would significantly aid their recovery and reintegration.
This initiative underscores Delta’s dedication to compassionate leadership and supporting its citizens through adversity.
