Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has approved a comprehensive welfare and reintegration package for 86 indigenes of the state who were evacuated from South Africa following the recent wave of xenophobic attacks. The package, which was announced on Friday, July 31, 2026, includes a ₦2 million grant for each affected family, monthly welfare stipends, free medical screening, and trauma counselling. The intervention is part of a broader effort to help returnees rebuild their lives after losing homes, businesses, and other means of livelihood during the violence in South Africa.
Speaking during a reception for the returnees at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, Governor Oborevwori, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo, condemned the xenophobic attacks, describing them as a gross violation of human dignity. "No individual should be subjected to violence, intimidation or discrimination on account of nationality," the governor said. He expressed sympathy with the victims over the physical, emotional and financial losses they suffered and commended President Bola Tinubu for his prompt intervention, which facilitated the safe evacuation of the affected Nigerians from South Africa.
Under the approved package, every returning family will receive an immediate ₦2 million cash grant to cushion the financial impact of their displacement. Additionally, beginning in August 2026, individual returnees will receive a monthly welfare stipend of ₦200,000, while returning families will receive ₦300,000 every month. The government said the monthly stipends would continue until the end of Governor Oborevwori's first tenure on May 29, 2027. The Commissioner for the Bureau for Special Duties, Hon. Ejiro Etacherure, disclosed that the governor personally directed that every returning Deltan be properly identified, documented and received with dignity, while relevant agencies were mandated to provide the assistance required for their reintegration into society.
Beyond financial assistance, the state government also announced free medical screening for all returnees at government-owned health facilities across Delta State. The returnees will also have access to psychosocial support, including trauma counselling and mental health services through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Services. According to the state government, the intervention is designed to ease the financial and emotional burden on those affected by the attacks, many of whom reportedly lost businesses, homes and years of investment during the violence in South Africa. Urging Deltans to receive the returnees with compassion, solidarity and kindness, the governor said such values reflected the true Delta spirit, assuring the victims that the unfortunate experience would not define their future.
The evacuation and reintegration of Nigerians affected by the xenophobic attacks is part of a broader national effort coordinated by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). Several state governments have also announced support for their returning citizens. Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma pledged ₦1 million to each returnee from Imo State, while Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo announced a ₦1 million resettlement package for Edo indigenes, alongside access to soft loans to help them establish small businesses.
Responding on behalf of the returnees, Mr. Jacob Agbada expressed profound appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for approving the ₦2 million grant and the monthly stipend, describing the gesture as timely and life-changing. He said they were deeply grateful to the governor for his compassion, generosity and unwavering support during one of the most difficult periods of their lives. Another returnee, Mr. Saturday Akanuche, said the support from the Delta State Government had restored his hope. "I never expected this. I am overwhelmed and grateful. With this money, I can start life again and open a small business. I had almost lost hope after everything I lost in South Africa, but now I dare to dream again," he said.
The Delta State Government's intervention underscores the growing recognition of the need to provide comprehensive support for Nigerians affected by the xenophobic attacks in South Africa. The attacks, which have resulted in the deaths of several Nigerians and the destruction of properties and businesses, have prompted a coordinated response from the Federal Government and various state governments to evacuate stranded citizens and support their reintegration into society. Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration's commitment to creating opportunities for all citizens while calling for sustained protection of the rights and dignity of Nigerians living abroad. "This painful experience must not kill your entrepreneurial spirit. You left with courage to seek a better life. Let that same resilience help you build a better future here at home," he said.
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