Emmanuel Ochayi
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, highlighted the accomplishments of the Federal government’s poverty alleviation programmes disbursement of N20,000 to vulnerable groups in Cross River State.
“The Federal Government has many initiatives… 3.5 million Nigerians have benefitted across the board,” she declared.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelEdu emphasized the need for collective commitment from state governments to ensure the success of these poverty alleviation strategies.
“All I ask for at the state level is for the state to key fully to the center,” she urged, underscoring the significance of unified efforts.
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Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State echoed support for the initiative, emphasizing its potential to reduce poverty among vulnerable populations. He commended the timing of the disbursement during the festive season, acknowledging the positive impact it could have on recipients.
However, amidst these commendations, conflicting reports have surfaced regarding the efficacy of these federal programs. World Bank report suggested that less than 1% of poor and vulnerable households had benefited from the government’s cash transfer program, contradicting the Minister’s claim of 3.5 million beneficiaries.
Similarly, the Bretton Woods institution informed that nearly all targeted poor households for the cash transfer program lack a National Identification Number (NIN).
This discrepancy has raised concerns about the exclusion of individuals without a NIN and Bank Verification Number (BVN) from the National Social Register’s upcoming review, potentially affecting their eligibility for assistance.
The backdrop to these discussions lies in the October launch of the conditional cash transfer program, aiming to support 15 million Nigerian households with N25,000 for three months.
Additionally, the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Program announced plans to provide N50,000 as non-interest loans to 1.5 million market women, branded as the Iyaloya Funds by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs.
As the nation grapples with poverty alleviation efforts and conflicting reports on their impact, the Minister’s call for unity among state governments to bolster these initiatives remains crucial, while the need for transparency and inclusivity in program implementation emerges as a pressing concern.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
