Xenophobia: Aiyedatiwa unveils support for Ondo returnees fleeing South Africa

By Boye Oyeyemi

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has pledged financial and other support to indigenes evacuated from South Africa following xenophobic attacks, urging them to use their skills and international experience to rebuild their lives at home.

Aiyedatiwa made the pledge on Thursday during a welcome and empowerment programme for the returnees at the Cocoa Conference Hall, Governor’s Office, Akure. He said the state government had approved financial assistance for each beneficiary to help them settle after losing businesses, properties and livelihoods in South Africa.

The governor also directed the compilation of the returnees’ profiles and biodata, with relevant forms to be distributed through the Ministry of Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations to support their reintegration into the state.

He urged the returnees to turn their skills, knowledge and exposure abroad into opportunities for economic advancement. Aiyedatiwa advised them to identify unmet needs in their communities and build legitimate businesses around them, saying opportunities abound for those willing to seek them.

“Look around, look for opportunities, see the needs and meet the needs. That’s how to make money. There are needs everywhere when you look,” the governor said.

Aiyedatiwa said the intervention would go beyond immediate financial assistance, noting that sustainable reintegration would require skills development, counselling, entrepreneurship support and an environment conducive to economic activity. He also urged the returnees to reconnect with their families and communities across the state.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Wale Akinlosotu, said the government received the returnees as part of its commitment to the welfare of Ondo indigenes wherever they might travel. He described their homecoming as the beginning of a broader reintegration process rather than a ceremonial event.

Speaking on behalf of the returnees, Ajibade James Ogunleye recounted the difficulties they faced in South Africa, including violent attacks, permit and health care challenges, as well as the destruction or loss of businesses and properties. He thanked the federal and state governments for facilitating their evacuation, accommodation and return.