BENIN CITY, Nigeria — Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has pledged N41 million to support 41 Edo indigenes who recently returned from South Africa following xenophobic attacks, offering N1 million to each returnee to help them rebuild their lives after enduring weeks of violence and displacement.
The governor made the announcement on Monday during a reception held at the Government House in Benin City for the returnees, who were among the latest batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa amid escalating anti-immigrant violence that has claimed lives and destroyed businesses. Okpebholo expressed deep concern over the harrowing experiences of the returnees and assured them of the state government’s commitment to their welfare and reintegration.
The governor described the attacks on Nigerians in South Africa as unacceptable and called on the federal government to intensify diplomatic efforts to protect Nigerian citizens abroad. He also urged the returnees to channel their energy into productive ventures that would contribute to the development of Edo State, assuring them that the government would continue to provide necessary support to help them get back on their feet.
The N41 million pledge is part of a broader effort by the Edo State Government to address the needs of returnees and ensure their successful reintegration into society. The governor also promised to engage with relevant federal agencies to facilitate access to skill acquisition programmes and other livelihood support for the returnees.
The reception was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, and representatives of civil society organisations, all of whom expressed solidarity with the returnees and pledged to support the state government’s efforts to assist them. The returnees expressed gratitude to the governor for the support and vowed to make the best use of the opportunity to rebuild their lives.
The xenophobic attacks in South Africa have triggered widespread outrage across Nigeria, with many calling for stronger diplomatic measures to protect Nigerian citizens abroad. The Edo State Government’s intervention underscores the importance of state-level support for returnees and the need for a coordinated response to the challenges facing Nigerians in the diaspora.
