Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori has authorized a financial and social welfare assistance program designed to support state indigenes who were evacuated from South Africa following recent outbreaks of xenophobic violence.

Under the newly approved framework, each affected family will receive a direct ₦2 million grant alongside recurring monthly welfare stipends. Individual returnees are slated to receive ₦200,000 every month, while families will receive ₦300,000 monthly, with disbursements running from August 2026 until May 29, 2027.

Beyond direct cash transfers, the state administration is offering free comprehensive medical screenings across public health institutions, while directing the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Services to administer trauma counseling and psychosocial support.

The relief measures were officially announced during a reception ceremony held at Unity Hall within the Government House in Asaba. Representing Governor Oborevwori at the event, Chief of Staff Hon. Johnson Erijo highlighted the necessity of state intervention to mitigate the physical, emotional, and economic damage inflicted on the returnees, while commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for facilitating their safe evacuation back to Nigeria.

The Commissioner for the Bureau for Special Duties, Hon. Ejiro Etacherure, noted that government agencies were instructed to thoroughly identify and register every returnee to guarantee they receive proper medical care and integration support.

Delivering the governor’s key message, Erijo explicitly condemned the targeting of foreign nationals and called for compassion from local communities.

No individual should be subjected to violence, intimidation or discrimination on account of nationality, the governor stated, adding that citizens should receive the returnees with “compassion, solidarity and kindness.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Jacob Agbada expressed relief over the state’s intervention, noting that the combination of cash grants, monthly stipends, and medical assistance offers a critical lifeline for families attempting to rebuild after losing their livelihoods abroad.