Tinubu speaks on cash transfer programme for 15 million households, other plans
Tinubu speaks on cash transfer programme for 15 million ... Premium Times
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President Bola Tinubu Expands Cash Transfer Programs to Include Additional 15 Million Vulnerable Households
President Bola Tinubu has announced that the updated social safety net project will cover an additional 15 million Nigerians by expanding the cash transfer programs. This initiative is part of the government’s plan to reduce poverty and will commence in October.
About Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT)
The CCT program was introduced by former President Muhammadu Buhari as part of the 2016 Social Intervention Scheme to reduce poverty in Nigeria. Under this program, beneficiaries receive a monthly payment of N5,000 from the government, with some households receiving an additional N10,000 based on other conditions relating to pregnancy and school children.
Expansion of the CCT Program
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, recently announced that the federal government plans to cover no fewer than 15 million households under the CCT project. This strategic effort aims to empower individuals and families and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations.
Current Status of the CCT Program
As of November 2022, the National Cash Transfer Office (NCTO) reported that the number of beneficiaries of the CCT has reached about two million. The NCTO has targeted and enrolled beneficiaries from rural areas across all 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The program has reached 609 local governments, 6,272 wards, and 48,789 communities.
Challenges and Transparency Concerns
Despite the implementation of the CCT program, there has been an increase in the number of Nigerians living in poverty, from 40.1% in 2015 to 45% in 2023. This has raised concerns about the transparency and effectiveness of the program. In July, the National Economic Council (NEC) resolved not to use the social register used by the previous administration due to integrity issues and vague criteria for compilation.
Other Interventions
In addition to expanding the CCT program, President Bola Tinubu has set up an Infrastructure Support Fund for states to invest in critical areas of development. The government has also provided funds to states to provide relief packages against the impact of rising food costs and prices of other items. Furthermore, plans are underway to lower transportation costs through the provision of buses using Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).
President Bola Tinubu concluded his speech by inviting all Nigerians to join the government’s efforts to remake the nation into a better self and achieve the SDGs. He emphasized the commitment to serve faithfully and ensure sustainable development for all.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 1: No Poverty
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
The issues highlighted in the article are poverty reduction, cash transfer programs, and social safety nets. These issues are directly connected to SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) as they aim to alleviate poverty and ensure access to food for vulnerable households. Additionally, SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) is relevant as it focuses on improving the well-being of individuals and families.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- Target 1.3: Implement nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all, including floors, and by 2030 achieve substantial coverage of the poor and the vulnerable.
- Target 2.1: By 2030, end hunger and ensure access by all people, in particular, the poor and people in vulnerable situations, including infants, to safe, nutritious, and sufficient food all year round.
Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are Target 1.3 under SDG 1 and Target 2.1 under SDG 2. These targets focus on implementing social protection systems and measures for the poor and vulnerable, as well as ensuring access to safe and nutritious food for all.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Number of households covered under the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program.
- Number of beneficiaries of the CCT program.
- Percentage change in the number of Nigerians living in poverty.
The article mentions indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. These indicators include the number of households covered under the CCT program, the number of beneficiaries of the CCT program, and the percentage change in the number of Nigerians living in poverty.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 1: No Poverty | Target 1.3: Implement nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all, including floors, and by 2030 achieve substantial coverage of the poor and the vulnerable. | – Number of households covered under the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program. – Number of beneficiaries of the CCT program. – Percentage change in the number of Nigerians living in poverty. |
| SDG 2: Zero Hunger | Target 2.1: By 2030, end hunger and ensure access by all people, in particular, the poor and people in vulnerable situations, including infants, to safe, nutritious, and sufficient food all year round. | – Number of households covered under the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program. – Number of beneficiaries of the CCT program. – Percentage change in the number of Nigerians living in poverty. |
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Source: premiumtimesng.com
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