Figures cited by Punch Newspapers show that Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has committed ₦41 million to support 41 indigenes who were evacuated from South Africa following recent waves of xenophobic violence. Each returnee is set to receive ₦1 million within 24 hours to secure accommodation and prevent them from being stranded.
The announcement was made during an emotional reception at the Government House in Benin City, where the governor also promised the returnees soft loans to establish businesses utilizing skills they acquired abroad. Okpebholo urged them to remain positive, reminding them that their lives were far more valuable than the material assets they lost during the attacks.
Confirming the rehabilitation plan, the Political Economist reported that “the resettlement fund is aimed at helping the returnees quickly reintegrate into society and start afresh”. The News Agency of Nigeria also carried the report, noting that the state migration agency praised the governor for “his proactive steps and deep empathy toward distressed Edo indigenes abroad”.
Echotitbits take: While immediate cash handouts provide quick relief, long-term economic integration through the promised soft business loans will determine if these survivors can permanently rebuild their lives. It also shines a light on Nigeria’s complex diplomatic ties with South Africa.
Source: Channels TV – https://www.channelstv.com/2026/07/13/okpebholo-pledges-%E2%82%A61m-each-to-41-edo-returnees-fleeing-south-africa-attacks/, July 14, 2026
Photo credit: Punch
