Akwa Ibom Triumphs with N18.7bn Federal Cash Boost!
The Federal Government states that it has thus far allocated over N18.7 billion to 751 million at-risk families in Akwa Ibom State in three installments of the Household Prosperity and Empowerment-Cash Transfer Programme (HOPE-CT).
This sum is part of the N60 billion designated for the South-South region under the initiative. The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Bernard Doro, who revealed this over the weekend in Uyo during a Stakeholders’ Engagement and Dialogue with Beneficiaries of HOPE-CT, noted that Akwa Ibom was the primary recipient.
Doro indicated that the ministry purposefully coordinated the interaction with beneficiaries and other stakeholders to gather authentic feedback and ensure that accountability was maintained.
He added that the government needs to evaluate if the assistance is reaching the intended households and enhancing livelihoods, or not.
In his words, “The purpose of this visit is to personally connect with beneficiaries of the HOPE-CT programme and gather firsthand insights on the interventions already implemented.
“The ministry is striving towards a One Humanitarian One Poverty Response Framework where interventions are synchronized, transparent, and impactful.”
He also encouraged the beneficiaries to express their opinions candidly, stating that their feedback will aid in informing future policy choices and enhancing programme execution across the nation.
Earlier, the state governor, Pastor Umo Eno, represented by the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, expressed gratitude to the minister for personally undertaking the tour rather than delegating, noting it reflects a strong commitment and genuine concern for issues affecting the vulnerable and underserved.
She characterized the Conditional Cash Transfer as a critical social investment strategy aimed at elevating the most impoverished households out of severe poverty by providing direct financial assistance to at-risk families and invigorating local economies through support for small enterprises.
During the interactive sessions, beneficiaries who were randomly chosen to share their thoughts expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for the support but urged him to ensure the program’s sustainability and increase the N25,000 transfer.
Abel Enang, one of the beneficiaries, stated that considering the positive impact of the stipend on vulnerable households, especially in establishing small-scale businesses, it would be beneficial for the program to continue so that more impoverished families can benefit.
He mentioned that he had received a total of N75,000 from the three installments, which he invested in vegetable farming, adding that an increase in the amount would enable beneficiaries to achieve more.
