Oborevwori Backs Xenophobia Victims With Grants, Healthcare & Reintegration Support
By PAULINA NZERUBE
Delta Expands Humanitarian Response to Citizens Returning from South Africa
DELTA State has introduced a broad humanitarian and reintegration programme for citizens displaced by xenophobic attacks in South Africa, combining financial assistance, healthcare, counselling and social welfare into a coordinated recovery package.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori announced the measures during a reception for the returnees in Asaba, describing the initiative as part of the state’s commitment to protecting the welfare of its citizens regardless of where they reside.
The intervention follows reports that several Deltans lost relatives, businesses, property and livelihoods during attacks that forced many Nigerians to return home.
Immediate Relief Meets Long-Term Reintegration
Unlike emergency assistance programmes that focus mainly on immediate relief, the Delta initiative combines short-term support with measures designed to assist victims over an extended period.
Every affected family will receive a ₦2 million grant to facilitate economic recovery.
Each individual returnee will also receive a monthly welfare allowance of ₦200,000, while every affected family will benefit from an additional monthly payment of ₦300,000.
The payments will commence in August 2026 and continue until 29 May 2027.
Government officials believe the extended support period will give beneficiaries sufficient time to regain financial stability and rebuild sustainable livelihoods.
A Human Rights Response to Xenophobia
Governor Oborevwori condemned the attacks, describing xenophobic violence as an assault on human dignity and peaceful coexistence.
Represented by Chief of Staff Johnson Erijo, the governor stressed that nationality should never become a basis for discrimination or violence.
He reiterated Delta State’s commitment to supporting citizens affected by humanitarian emergencies beyond Nigeria’s borders.
The governor also appealed for stronger protection of Nigerians living abroad and called on residents to welcome the returnees with empathy and understanding.
Recovery Beyond Financial Assistance
Officials acknowledged that the consequences of xenophobic violence extend beyond economic losses.
Many victims reportedly returned with physical injuries and psychological trauma.
To address those concerns, the governor approved free medical examinations for all returnees at government health facilities.
He also directed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Services to coordinate counselling and psychosocial support services for victims and their families.
The approach reflects growing recognition that successful reintegration requires healthcare, emotional support and community acceptance alongside financial assistance.
Officials Outline Reintegration Strategy
Commissioner for the Bureau for Special Duties, Hon. Ejiro Etacherure, said the state government responded immediately after receiving reports of the attacks.
According to him, the governor ordered relevant agencies to identify every returning Deltan, document their circumstances and ensure they received appropriate government support.
He described the safe return of the victims as the product of effective collaboration between the Federal Government and Delta State, while commending President Bola Tinubu for facilitating the evacuation process.
Etacherure also encouraged the returnees to participate in the state’s empowerment programmes and take advantage of economic opportunities available under the MORE Agenda.
Victims Express Gratitude
Speaking for the returnees, Jacob Agbada expressed appreciation for the intervention.
He described the grants and monthly welfare payments as a lifeline for families struggling to recover from devastating personal and economic losses.
For many of the beneficiaries, the package represents more than financial assistance.
It signals official recognition of their suffering and offers a structured pathway towards recovery, reintegration and renewed economic participation within Delta State.
Government officials expressed optimism that the programme would enable the returnees to rebuild productive lives while reinforcing public confidence that citizens affected by crises abroad will not be left without institutional support.
