Federal Government has launched the $1 billion HOPE-SP programme to move vulnerable Nigerians from temporary palliatives to sustainable empowerment and self reliance.
The initiative, launched alongside four other programmes, are expected to improve how vulnerable households are identified, supported and tracked towards economic independence.
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu said the programmes would strengthen social protection and provide targeted assistance as economic reforms take effect.
Humanitarian Affairs Minister Dr Bernard Doro said the new system would reduce duplication by unifying government databases and tracking beneficiaries through a “poverty graduation pathway.”
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, also commended the Federal Government for the social protection initiative, describing it as an important intervention in addressing vulnerability among Nigerians.
The Governor emphasised the need for continued research into issues relating to identity and national security, while congratulating the Federal Government and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction on the rollout of the initiatives.
The government says success will now be measured by how many households are protected, economically included and ultimately lifted out of poverty.
The initiatives mark a shift in social protection strategy in Nigeria, from short term relief to coordinated interventions aimed at building household resilience, economic inclusion and lasting self reliance
