The Federal Government of Nigeria has allocated ₦4 billion for conditional cash transfers aimed at supporting vulnerable households across the country.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwada, during the launch of the 2025 Nigeria Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) at the United Nations House in Abuja on Thursday.
The initiative is expected to provide relief to at least 10 million displaced households, focusing on the most vulnerable members of society, particularly those in conflict-affected regions.
Cash Transfers to Begin in February
The cash transfer programme will commence in February 2025 and run through April. It is designed to alleviate the immediate needs of families affected by displacement, with particular attention to communities in the Northeast.
In addition to the cash transfers, the Federal Government has approved ₦2 billion for interest-free loans to rural farmers. These loans aim to boost food production and enhance self-sufficiency.
Supporting Women and Vulnerable Groups
“We are prioritizing women, especially widows, pregnant women, and those with disabilities. The experiences of displaced women, particularly those facing pregnancy or disability, are especially challenging. We understand these vulnerabilities and will continue to support those who are most in need,” Prof. Yilwada said.
He added that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to tackling poverty and displacement in Nigeria.
“The President has approved the Ministry’s plan to begin paying conditional cash transfers to 10 million displaced households between February and April. This initiative aims to support those most in need, particularly vulnerable families affected by displacement.”
Prof. Yilwada also noted the government’s allocation of ₦2 billion for interest-free loans to rural farmers, with each household eligible for loans ranging from ₦300,000 to ₦400,000. This will help farmers access essential resources and connect to market opportunities.
Addressing Humanitarian Needs
The ₦4 billion cash transfer programme will focus on families impacted by natural disasters and other crises, as part of a broader strategy to alleviate poverty and provide urgent relief.
“We are combining the efforts of humanitarian, developmental, and peacebuilding platforms to ensure long-term resilience and sustainable solutions for these communities,” Yilwada explained.
The HNRP, developed through extensive consultations, is targeted at addressing humanitarian challenges in Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, and other conflict-affected regions.
Focus on Female-Headed Households
Prof. Yilwada highlighted the gender-sensitive approach of the interventions, stating that female-headed households face unique challenges such as gender-based violence, child marriage, and food insecurity.
“Female-headed households experience higher rates of hunger than male-headed ones, and this is where we will focus much of our efforts. Ensuring access to food, water, healthcare, and safety for these women is one of our top priorities.”
UN’s Perspective on Nigeria’s Humanitarian Challenges
Mr. Trond Jensen, Head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, emphasized the scale of the humanitarian crisis. He noted that an estimated 7.8 million women, men, and children in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states will require humanitarian assistance in 2025.
