Okpebholo Approves ₦41 Million Support Package for Edo Returnees from South Africa

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has announced a ₦41 million support package for 41 Edo indigenes who returned to Nigeria after fleeing xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

Speaking while receiving the returnees at the Festival Hall of the Government House in Benin City, the governor said each returnee would receive ₦1 million within 24 hours to help secure accommodation and begin rebuilding their lives after reportedly losing homes, businesses, and other property during the attacks.

Governor Okpebholo also pledged to provide soft loans to interested beneficiaries to enable them establish businesses and successfully reintegrate into society. He encouraged the returnees to view their return home as an opportunity for a fresh start, assuring them of the state’s continued support.

The governor noted Nigeria’s historical support for South Africa during the anti apartheid struggle and emphasized that, despite the xenophobic attacks on Nigerians, the country should continue to pursue peaceful relations rather than retaliation.

Speaking on behalf of the returnees, Riches Unubun expressed gratitude to the Federal Government and the Edo State Government for facilitating their evacuation and providing assistance. He also urged the returnees to contribute positively to the development of Edo State.

Source: Daily Times Nigeria