FG announces plans to overhaul the N-Power scheme, expand its reach, and guarantee timely stipend payments for its beneficiaries.
Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, has announced plans to revamp the N-Power scheme to include more people and ensure timely payment of beneficiaries’ stipends.
Edu revealed this in a statement released on Sunday by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Rasheed Zubair, in Abuja.
The statement quoted the Minister as saying that the issues faced by N-Power beneficiaries regarding the delay in stipend payments would soon be resolved.
“We will modify the procedures to ensure people receive their delayed stipends, include more participants, and relaunch the program with a renewed sense of hope,” she said.
Edu also mentioned that the ministry is planning to establish humanitarian hubs in all 774 local government areas across the country, a move aimed at long-term poverty eradication in Nigeria.
She explained that these hubs would stock locally produced goods, which would be sold to Nigerians at more affordable prices.
Additionally, the statement revealed that the ministry would deploy its staff to all local government areas to gather feedback and employ digital tracking for the distribution of palliatives.
The digital tracking is intended to monitor the time, location, households, and individuals receiving the palliatives.
“This is to ensure transparent and effective distribution of palliatives. We also plan to involve independent monitors to confirm that the relief materials reach those in need.
“Under my supervision, the ministry will tackle poverty through job creation, cash transfers to impoverished Nigerians.
“We will also engage with the Nutrition Department, support the establishment of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, and provide stimulus to their businesses,” Edu said.
She reiterated her dedication to addressing the humanitarian crisis in Nigeria with a swift response.
“Nigerians can be confident that all existing empowerment programs under the National Investment Programme will be revamped to benefit more people efficiently.
Edu assured citizens of President Bola Tinubu’s significant economic measures designed to fulfill their immediate and future needs.
“The President has extensive economic strategies for Nigeria, some targeting short-term objectives, while others focus on long-term goals. We ask Nigerians to have faith in the process” (NAN)