The Federal Government has disbursed over N438 billion to 34 states and the FCT to combat poverty, aiming to improve living standards and foster economic growth nationwide.
Under the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) Programme, a total of N438 billion has been disbursed by the Federal Government (FG) to 34 states as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
On Tuesday in Abuja, a statement was issued by Suleiman Odapu who serves as the Communication Officer for the Federal CARES Support Unit (FCSU), conveying this information.
The funds disbursed were assigned to states and the FCT based on their performance during the third Independent Verification Agency (IVA) assessment, which took place in January 2024, as stated by Abdulkarim Obaje of NG-CARES.
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According to Obaje, the top earners were Zamfara, Nasarawa, and Plateau states which received N49.2 billion, N27.2 billion, and N26.3 billion respectively. Nonetheless, Kaduna and Anambra States failed to submit any results for authentication during the evaluation process.
Obaje expressed a positive outlook, stating that the fourth IVA exercise slated for September 2024 would witness participation from all 36 states and FCT. He further underlined that the significant reimbursement was intended to aid state governments and FCT in tackling multidimensional poverty issues, augmenting livelihoods, as well as strengthening resilience of impoverished and vulnerable communities.
These resources are designated to support social intervention programs in the states and FCT. Obaje expressed optimism that these funds will greatly enhance the well-being of numerous impoverished and neglected individuals in Nigeria.
His appreciation went to the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu including the Federal Government for their support in spearheading significant investments towards NG-CARES by state governors as well as the FCT Minister.
Their efforts and successes under the program were also commended by Obaje, who gave credit to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, governors and NG-CARES staff across the country.
Launched in 2021, the NG-CARES initiative seeks to alleviate the adverse effects of COVID-19 and other socioeconomic crises by offering monetary aid and essential social infrastructure facilities for underprivileged areas. The program is scheduled to come to an end in December 2024.
