The EU has committed €46 million to support Nigeria’s social protection system through the “Sustainable Social Protection System in Nigeria” program. Launched in Abuja, the initiative aims to improve the National Social Protection Register and enhance the system’s responsiveness to crises. Key partners include UNICEF and ILO, with a focus on data-driven interventions for vulnerable communities.
The European Union (EU) has announced a €46 million investment to enhance Nigeria’s social protection system through the new initiative titled “Sustainable Social Protection System in Nigeria.” Launched at the United Nations House in Abuja, this program signifies a substantial advancement in strengthening Nigeria’s social safety nets according to a release from Osagie Jacobs J.I., the Director of Information & Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Budget and National Planning.
This initiative was developed in collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning (FMBEP) and the EU, aiming to close gaps in the National Social Protection Register. The goal is to ensure the register effectively serves as a tool for resource allocation and policy implementation.
The program is set to begin operations in four states—Abia, Benue, Oyo, and Sokoto—over three years, strengthening the system’s responsiveness to economic and social crises affecting vulnerable populations. This initiative is in alignment with the Nigerian government’s commitment to providing targeted interventions for disadvantaged communities, ensuring that social protection programs leverage data and maintain efficiency.
Key partners in the program’s implementation include the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the International Labour Organization (ILO). These organizations will offer technical support, policy guidance, and expertise in program design, collaborating closely with various Federal Ministries to maximize the effectiveness of support delivered to those in need.
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, affirmed the Nigerian government’s dedication to this partnership, emphasizing its importance in enhancing the social protection system. The EU’s substantial investment reflects its ongoing commitment to social welfare initiatives in Nigeria, which have historically focused on poverty reduction, healthcare improvement, and governance enhancement.
The Sustainable Social Protection System in Nigeria program is poised to foster a more inclusive and resilient framework for social assistance, allowing for adequate support for the most vulnerable groups amid economic challenges and crises. Expected outcomes of this initiative include an improved National Social Register, bolstered capacity-building for policymakers, enhanced legal frameworks, and a more efficient Social Protection Management Information System.
In summary, the EU’s €46 million investment marks a pivotal step in enhancing Nigeria’s social protection system through the Sustainable Social Protection System initiative. By addressing gaps in the National Social Protection Register and implementing targeted measures in selected states, the program strives to support vulnerable populations more effectively. The collaboration between the Nigerian government and international organizations showcases a robust commitment to social welfare and resilience in challenging circumstances.
Original Source: nairametrics.com
