The Ondo State Government has promised financial aid, skills training and counselling for indigenes who returned from South Africa following xenophobic attacks and security concerns.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa made the commitment on Thursday in Akure while receiving the returnees during a state government welcoming and empowerment programme.
Aiyedatiwa said he had approved financial support for each returnee. He also ordered officials to profile them so the government can identify the best ways to help with their settlement, empowerment and reintegration.
He said returning home should not mark the end of their difficulties. Instead, it should begin a fresh effort to rebuild their lives. The governor urged them to use the skills, knowledge and experience they gained in South Africa to create opportunities in Ondo State.
“The returnees should see their experience abroad as an opportunity to start afresh and contribute to the development of their communities,” Mr Aiyedatiwa said.
The governor explained that the reintegration programme would extend beyond immediate financial assistance. It would include skills development, counselling, entrepreneurship and other forms of economic support.
He encouraged the returnees to study the needs and business opportunities in their communities, noting that their experience in another economic environment could help them develop new ventures.
Representing the returnees, Ajibade James described the challenges they faced in South Africa, including violent attacks and the destruction or loss of businesses and property.
Mr Ogunleye thanked the federal and state governments for helping them return safely. He said many returnees needed more than transport back to Nigeria because some had lost the businesses and assets that supported their livelihoods.
The South Africa repatriation formed part of a wider federal exercise launched in June after renewed xenophobic attacks and security concerns. By 15 July, the government said it had evacuated 1,490 Nigerians in seven flights, while more than 1,500 Nigerians voluntarily returned between 11 June and 15 July.
In July, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said two Nigerians were killed during the anti-migrant violence.
How can government support help these returnees rebuild sustainable livelihoods?
