By Nurat Uthman
Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, has revealed the Ministry’s plan to establish humanitarian hubs in all 774 local government areas in Nigeria.
These hubs aim to eliminate poverty in the country in the long term. They will provide affordable locally produced goods to Nigerians.
During a radio program called ‘Radio Link’, Dr. Edu explained that the Ministry will also deploy staff to the local government areas to gather feedback and digitally track the distribution of relief materials. This will help determine when and where the materials are delivered, as well as the households and individuals who receive them.
To ensure a transparent and effective distribution of palliatives, Dr. Edu announced the intention to involve Independent Monitors. These monitors will ensure that the relief materials reach those who are most in need.
As the former National Woman Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Edu assured that the Ministry will address poverty through various means, such as job creation, cash transfers to the poor, collaboration with the Nutrition Department, support for Micro Small and Medium Enterprises, and providing stimulus for business growth.
The Ministry is dedicated to tackling the humanitarian crisis in Nigeria, and prompt response to such crises will be a top priority for the Ministry going forward.
Regarding the Ministry’s empowerment schemes, Dr. Edu stated that existing programs within the National Investment Programme will be improved to cover more Nigerians.
Dr. Edu mentioned that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has significant economic plans for Nigeria, including both short-term and long-term goals. She emphasized that Nigerians should trust the process.
Addressing the challenges faced by N-Power beneficiaries, specifically delays in payment, the Minister assured that the Ministry is working tirelessly to address the issue.
The modalities will be revised to ensure timely payment and inclusion of more people, with a renewed hope for the program.
