The Federal Government has officially approved a N4bn cash transfer program aimed at assisting Nigerian households, set to begin in February. This initiative is part of the government's ongoing effort to support vulnerable populations across the country. The 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 at the United Nations House in Abuja on Thursday.
Prof. Yilwada emphasized that the program is specifically designed to target vulnerable households, especially those affected by displacement, with the goal of reaching at least 10 million displaced households across Nigeria. The cash transfer initiative, which will run from February through April, is aimed at alleviating the immediate challenges faced by families in need, particularly those residing in the Northeast of the country, where displacement has been most severe.
Furthermore, the government has taken additional steps to support rural communities by approving a separate N2bn in interest-free loans for farmers. These loans are intended to boost food production and contribute to self-sufficiency, particularly in rural areas where access to financial resources has been limited. The government’s focus on agriculture is in line with its broader efforts to enhance food security and empower local farmers to meet national needs.
In addition to these initiatives, Prof. Yilwada highlighted that special attention will be given to women, particularly widows, pregnant women, and those with disabilities, recognizing the unique challenges they face in times of displacement. The Minister acknowledged that women in displaced communities, especially those who are pregnant or living with disabilities, often experience heightened vulnerabilities, and as such, the program will ensure targeted support for these groups. He stated, “We understand these vulnerabilities and are committed to providing ongoing support to those who need it most.”
The Minister also reiterated the importance of the conditional cash transfer program, which will be distributed to the 10 million displaced households between February and April. He concluded by stating that this initiative is a critical part of the government's efforts to ease the hardships of vulnerable families affected by displacement, with a strong emphasis on providing timely assistance to those in greatest need.