The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to restart the direct cash transfer program to assist the poorest and most vulnerable Nigerians. With the rising prices of goods and food items, as well as the depreciation of the naira, millions of Nigerians are facing hardships.
Currently, around 3 million Nigerians benefit from these programs, but the government plans to expand the reach to an additional 12 million households, bringing the total to approximately 15 million households.
During a retreat of the Ministry of Finance, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun, announced that the presidential panel on social investment programs will meet with President Bola Tinubu to recommend the restart of direct cash payments.
The aim is to ease the financial burden faced by the most vulnerable members of society. Edun emphasized that the expansion of the direct cash transfer program is intended to reach a wider population struggling with the economic situation. The objective is to put more money directly into the hands of those who need it most, enabling them to prioritize their needs and alleviate poverty.
To ensure smooth and transparent payments, the government plans to utilize technology and avoid manual processes and delays.
The Minister assured that experts in technology are working to automate the payment process and facilitate seamless movement between registered and direct beneficiaries. The decision to inform the President of the Panel’s recommendation before the final report is completed demonstrates the government’s commitment to promptly address the financial challenges faced by the most vulnerable Nigerians.
The government is determined to use technology to make the direct cash transfer program more effective and efficient.
