By Matthew Don
Imo State indigenes who were among Nigerians that returned from South Africa recently have been assured of government plan to help them resettle in the state.
Succour came the way of about 91 of them on Wednesday when Governor Emeka Ihedioha received them at Government House, Owerri and promised that he would assist in rehabilitating them in alliance with the federal government.
As part of the state government’s plan to reintegrate and resettle them Ihedioha has set up an inter-ministerial committee to map out strategies for their resettlement, according to a statement signed by Chibuike Onyeukwu, the chief press secretary to the governor.
Speaking during the reception Ihedioha thanked God for saving their lives despite the casualties recorded during the xenophobic attacks.
The statement added: “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 headed by his Special Adviser on Diaspora Affairs, Prof, Chudi Uwazuruike shall comprise 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.”
Speaking 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.”