The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, has shed light on the Federal Government’s program aimed at uplifting 50 million people from poverty in Nigeria, as directed by President Bola Tinubu.
During a press briefing at the State House Conference Center, Abuja, Edu revealed that one of the initiatives involves the ongoing disbursement of N25,000 to impoverished households in Nigeria through the conditional cash transfer program.
This financial support will continue for the next three months, totaling N75,000 per household, to cushion the economic impact caused by the removal of fuel subsidies.
Additionally, this initiative is expected to contribute to lifting 61 million households out of poverty.
Edu emphasized the meticulous verification process to ensure that the funds reach the intended beneficiaries.
The government is identifying recipients, validating their identities through their National Identification Numbers (NINs) and Bank Verification Numbers (BVNs), and ensuring prompt disbursements.
The minister pointed out that this program represents 15 million households, equivalent to approximately 61 million individuals. Beyond this, President Tinubu’s administration plans to create jobs for millions of Nigerians through various strategies.
These measures include offering zero-interest loans to markets, petty traders, and market women, as well as supporting poor farmers through initiatives like the End Hunger Project and the Good Nigeria Project.
To tackle the multi-dimensional issue of poverty effectively, Edu highlighted the importance of collaboration between her ministry and others, such as the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Agriculture.
These partnerships will address various aspects of poverty, including access to education, quality healthcare, and employment opportunities.
The retreat held at the State House Conference Center has provided valuable insights into governance, leadership, and managing government affairs, setting the agenda for the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Edu emphasized that President Tinubu’s vision is to reach millions of Nigerians, create jobs, ensure food security, eradicate poverty, promote good governance, combat corruption, and uphold the rule of law.
The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and its affiliated agencies are committed to fulfilling these mandates and delivering results for the benefit of Nigeria’s citizens.