N438b Disbursed by FG to States and FCT for Tackling Poverty

The FG has disbursed over N438 billion to 34 states and the FCT for poverty alleviation efforts. Learn about the impact and goals of this funding.

Under the NG-CARES Programme, a sum of over N438 billion has been disbursed by the Federal Government (FG) to 34 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

On Tuesday in Abuja, Suleiman Odapu – the Information and Communication Officer of the Federal CARES Support Unit (FCSU) – made known this information through a statement.

Abdulkarim Obaje, who serves as the National Coordinator of the NG-CARES Programme stated that disbursement of funds was determined by states and FCT’s performance during January 2024 third-party assessment conducted by Independent Verification Agency (IVA).

According to Obaje, the highest earners were Zamfara, Nasarawa and Plateau states who received N49.2 billion, N27.2 billion and N26.3 billion respectively. Nonetheless, during the evaluation process Kaduna and Anambra States omitted their results for confirmation purposes.

Obaje is hopeful that the fourth IVA exercise, which is planned for September 2024, will see all 36 states and the FCT participating. He stressed that this initiative’s significant compensation is intended to assist state governments and the FCT in tackling challenges related to multidimensional poverty by enhancing poor and vulnerable populations’ resilience while simultaneously improving livelihoods.

The funds are designated for social intervention programs in the states and FCT, with Obaje expressing optimism that these resources will greatly enhance the quality of life for numerous impoverished and marginalized Nigerians.

The author expressed gratitude towards the Federal Government and, specifically, Abubakar Bagudu – the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning. They acknowledged his leadership skills and assistance in enabling substantial funding from state governors as well as the FCT Minister to be invested in NG-CARES.

The program’s achievements and the efforts of Nyesom Wike, governors, and NG-CARES staff nationwide were applauded by Obaje.

Initiated in 2021, the NG-CARES programme has set its sights on alleviating some of the detrimental effects caused by COVID-19 and other socioeconomic crises experienced within underprivileged communities. By offering grants alongside essential social infrastructure services, this initiative hopes to reach a conclusion by December of 2024.