Governor Emeka Ihedioha, on Wednesday, met with the indigenes of Imo State who are part of the Nigerians who were evacuated from South Africa following the recent xenophobic attacks in the the country.
The statement released by the Chibuike Onyeukwu, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, revealed that the meeting was part of the state government’s plan to reintegrate and resettle returnees.
The Governor used the opportunity to announce the set-up of an inter-ministerial committee to map out strategies for their resettlement.
Speaking during the reception of the returnees at the Government House, Owerri, Governor Ihedioha, thanked God for saving their lives despite the casualties recorded during the attack.
He reminded them that this is a period for soul searching, saying, “We understand clearly the import of this incident. What the displacement has given rise to, is that you have to start afresh, begin to adjust either to start a new life or otherwise”.
He noted that a desk has been set up to articulate an implementable plan that will guarantee sustainable livelihood for them.
He disclosed that the Inter Ministerial Committee which will be headed by his Special Adviser on Diaspora Affairs, Prof, Chudi Uwazuruike shall comprise of the Ministries of Youths; Labour; Education; Health to be supervised by the Ministry of Gender and Vulnerable Group Affairs, will work out basically how to help them resettle.
The Governor noted that the state is doing its best to link up with the Federal Government to ensuring that special attention is given to Imo returnees, as the state has fulfilled all the requirements needed by the Diaspora Commission.
While thanking the management of Air Peace for their patriotic act of bringing home Nigerians at no cost, he commended the Archbishop of Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev. Anthony Obinna for providing succor which has greatly strengthened the returnees since they arrived the state.
Appreciating the Governor, on behalf of the returnees, Mr. Uche Edih thanked the Governor for his prompt response and fatherly concern, promising that they will put into good use, any assistance offered by the state to them.
Highlight of the event was the distribution of food items and stipend to the returnees.
