The Abia State Government announced the approval in a press release issued on Saturday, August 15, 2026, signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha.
According to the statement, Governor Otti approved the immediate disbursement of ₦1 million each to the 31 verified returnees as an interim relief measure.
The government said the financial support is intended to provide immediate assistance while assuring the returnees that they have not been abandoned during their period of need.
A comprehensive profiling exercise is currently being conducted for each returnee to determine their individual circumstances and socio-economic needs.
The government said the profiling would help it design appropriate interventions aimed at promoting sustainable reintegration and providing social protection tailored to the circumstances of the returnees.
The Abia State Government described the initiative as part of Governor Otti’s commitment to supporting vulnerable residents and protecting the welfare and dignity of citizens facing difficult circumstances.
The government also reiterated its position that Abia remains home to all its sons and daughters, regardless of where they are located or the circumstances that brought them back to the state.
According to the statement, the administration wants every Abian to have an opportunity to recover, rebuild and contribute meaningfully to society.
The latest intervention comes as the government continues to highlight programmes and policies focused on supporting citizens facing hardship.
The Abia returnees from South Africa will receive the ₦1 million payment as an immediate support measure, while further interventions are expected to be considered after the ongoing profiling process is completed.
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