Nigerian governor pledges $1 million to South Africa returnees

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has pledged one million naira to each indigene of the state returning from South Africa following xenophobic attacks. The governor announced the financial support while addressing a group of returnees at the Edo Government House in Benin City, stating the money is to aid their accommodation and resettlement.

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Once you identify what you want to do, come to us. We will give you a soft loan to kick off, because we want you to be fully reintegrated into society.

Okpebholo also offered soft loans to the returnees to help them start businesses or pursue other ventures, emphasizing the goal of full reintegration into society. "Once you identify what you want to do, come to us. We will give you a soft loan to kick off, because we want you to be fully reintegrated into society," he said. He assured them that Edo State and Nigeria offer peace and safety, unlike the hostile environment they faced in South Africa.

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But for you to arrange your housing, we will give each of you N1million between now and tomorrow, you will receive that money so you will not be stranded.

Reflecting on Nigeria-South Africa relations, the governor noted that Nigerians had previously supported South Africans and their businesses, suggesting a reciprocal expectation that was not met. He vowed that the state would continue to support its citizens abroad, ensuring their rescue and comfort if they face distress.

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There is no place better than home; nobody will chase you away from here. We have peace here. Edo is safe, and Nigeria is safe.

Speaking for the returnees, Riches Unubun thanked the Edo and federal governments for their swift evacuation efforts. He urged the government to facilitate voter registration, expressing a desire to vote for continuity in Edo State's leadership based on the government's compassionate response.

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South Africa may have taken everything from you, but you have life, which is more important.