XENOPHOBIC ATTACKS: Delta Governor Approves ₦2m Grant, Monthly Stipends for South Africa Returnees

ASABA – Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved a comprehensive welfare package for indigenes of the state who recently returned from South Africa following xenophobic attacks.

The emergency intervention includes an immediate ₦2 million ($1,471) resettlement grant for each affected family alongside consistent monthly financial support to facilitate their reintegration.

Breakdown of the Welfare Package

Under the newly approved framework, the Delta State Government will dispense the following monthly allowances starting August 2026:

• Individual Returnees: ₦200,000 monthly stipend.
• ⁠Affected Families: ₦300,000 monthly allowance.

The state government confirmed that these monthly disbursements will run continuously until the expiration of the Governor’s first tenure on May 29, 2027.

Government Condemns Violence, Commends Presidency

Speaking at an official reception for the victims at the Unity Hall, Government House in Asaba, Governor Oborevwori condemned the xenophobic violence, describing it as a gross violation of human dignity.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo, the Governor emphasized that no individual should face intimidation or violence based on their nationality. He extended deep sympathies to the returnees for the physical, emotional, and financial losses incurred during the crisis.

Oborevwori also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his swift federal intervention, which successfully facilitated the evacuation of the stranded Nigerians.

Medical Care and Trauma Support Launched

To address the immediate health needs of the victims, the Governor announced the following immediate actions:

• Free Healthcare: Complete medical screenings for all returnees at state-owned health facilities.
• ⁠Psychosocial Support: Specialized trauma counselling managed by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Services.

The Governor urged citizens to welcome the returnees with solidarity and kindness, assuring the victims that this setback would not define their future.

Seamless Reintegration Assured

Earlier in the programme, the Commissioner for the Bureau for Special Duties, Hon. Ejiro Etacherure, stated that the governor had directed the proper identification and dignified documentation of every returnee. He noted that the seamless evacuation highlights the effective collaboration between the federal and state governments.

Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Jacob Agbada expressed immense gratitude to Governor Oborevwori, describing the ₦2 million grant and monthly stipends as timely, life-changing interventions.