By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (ACNPN), Delta State Council, has applauded Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for approving a comprehensive welfare and reintegration package for Deltans who recently returned from South Africa following xenophobic attacks.
The association described the governor’s intervention as timely, compassionate, and reflective of a leader who prioritizes the welfare and wellbeing of his people.
Governor Oborevwori had announced a robust support package for the affected returnees, including a ₦2 million grant for each affected family to help them rebuild their lives and businesses after suffering losses during the attacks.
In addition, each individual returnee will receive a monthly welfare stipend of ₦200,000, while affected families will receive ₦300,000 monthly from August 2026 until the expiration of the governor’s first tenure on May 29, 2027.
In a statement, ACNPN strongly condemned the xenophobic attacks, describing them as a grave violation of human rights and an assault on the dignity of fellow Africans.
The association noted that no individual should be subjected to violence, intimidation, discrimination, or persecution because of nationality, race, or place of origin.
ACNPN expressed deep sympathy for the victims and their families, acknowledging the emotional trauma, physical suffering, and economic losses they endured as a result of the attacks.
The publishers also commended Governor Oborevwori for giving the returnees a fresh opportunity to restart their lives through the generous intervention package.
As part of efforts to address the health and psychological impact of the incident, the governor approved free medical screening for all returnees at government-owned health facilities across the state. He also directed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Services to provide trauma counselling and psychosocial support for the victims and their families.
Governor Oborevwori further urged Deltans to welcome the returnees with compassion, solidarity, and understanding, emphasizing that such values represent the true spirit of Delta State.
The governor assured the victims that the unfortunate experience would not define their future, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting the rights, welfare, and dignity of Deltans and Nigerians living abroad.
ACNPN thanked God for preserving the lives of the returnees and praised the governor for his swift intervention and unwavering commitment to their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
The association also encouraged the returnees to take advantage of the numerous empowerment programmes and economic opportunities available under the MORE Agenda of the Oborevwori administration.
According to ACNPN, the governor’s action has restored hope to the victims and demonstrated that Delta State remains committed to standing by its citizens in times of difficulty.
The association concluded by expressing profound appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for his compassion, generosity, and exemplary leadership during one of the most difficult periods in the lives of the affected families.