As part of activities to commemorate the 2024 International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, the Federal Government has unveiled an empowerment program aimed at uplifting vulnerable citizens in the country.
The event was organized by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in collaboration with the office of the Senior Special Adviser to the President on Humanitarian Affairs.
Speaking at the event, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Abel Olumuyiwa Enitan, reiterated the administration’s commitment to creating a just, equitable, and prosperous future for all Nigerians.
He emphasized the importance of combating poverty in all its forms, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He said,”The 2024 International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is dedicated to raising awareness and promoting action to combat poverty worldwide,” Enitan stated, highlighting the theme: “Ending social and institutional maltreatment: Acting together for a just, peaceful, and inclusive society.”
He further explained, “This year’s theme aligns with Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to uplifting its citizens. Poverty remains a global challenge that requires action at both national and international levels, and eradicating extreme poverty remains a top priority for Nigeria.”
In line with the Sustainable Development Goal 1, which aims for “No Poverty,” Enitan detailed various initiatives the government is implementing.
These include enhancing human capital development through improved access to quality education and healthcare, promoting entrepreneurship via microfinance schemes and skills development programs, and strengthening the agricultural sector to bolster food security.
Additionally, he noted the establishment of an institutional framework via the Ministry to mobilize efforts nationally and internationally to reduce poverty.
“The Ministry also oversees the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), which has been reinvigorated to effectively deliver social safety net intervention programs to vulnerable populations,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary highlighted the government’s focus on socio-economic inclusion for persons with disabilities and the establishment of the National Senior Citizens Centre to address the needs of senior citizens.
Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Enitan mentioned additional initiatives such as promoting Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for affordable mass transportation, a consumer credit scheme, and a student loan program to alleviate financial burdens.
In her remarks, Senior Special Adviser to the President on Humanitarian Affairs, Mrs. Delu Bulus-Yakubu, urged the trainees to make the most of the opportunities provided by the government.
“Thousands are out there looking for opportunities like this, so please use it judiciously,” she advised.
Acknowledging the harsh socio-economic conditions facing the country, Bulus-Yakubu urged patience with President Tinubu’s administration.
“The hardship is global,” she said, calling for 100 percent support for the administration in its efforts to elevate the country.
“I want to assure Nigerians today that the present administration is trying hard to implement policies that will cushion the hardship in our dear country. Please, Nigerians, let’s support this administration. Happy Poverty Alleviation Day to us all,” she concluded.
