The Abia State Government is working out a relief package for about 500 victims of xenophobic attacks from the state who were evacuated from South Africa.
Depending on each victim’s most pressing needs, the package will include training, investment opportunities, engagement, and accommodation, among others.
The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the State Diaspora Commission, Dr Annie Onu, disclosed this while speaking with newsmen in Umuahia, the state capital.
While describing the relief package as part of the government’s youth-friendly, sensitive, and compassionate gestures, she condemned the South African government over the attacks.
The former ambassador announced that a database was being developed for all citizens of the state in the Diaspora to coordinate their welfare and ensure their safety.
She urged prospective travellers from the state to seek guidance from her office before travelling abroad, particularly on visa requirements and friendly countries, to avoid unpleasant experiences.
The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer noted that unguided travelling had landed many promising Nigerian youths in prison and, in some cases, led to their deaths.
Onu, who commended the Dr Alex Otti-led administration in the state for its support to the commission, solicited more funding to enable it to achieve its objectives effectively.
She advised youths to embrace discipline, hard work, self-confidence, creativity, and obedience to authorities to succeed wherever they find themselves.
