Governor Yahaya Bello Unveils State Ministry Focused on Humanitarian Aid and Poverty Alleviation
Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State showcased his administration’s commitment to social welfare by announcing the establishment of the State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation during a significant event held in Lokoja.
In alignment with the broader vision outlined in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s #RenewedHope agenda, aimed at uplifting 50 million Nigerians from poverty annually, Governor Bello unveiled this pivotal ministry during the kick-off of the Federal Government’s Grant for Vulnerable programme at the Government House.
Emphasizing the meticulous attention given to the legal and legislative frameworks necessary for the ministry’s establishment, Governor Bello underlined its purpose: to specifically support economically disadvantaged groups within the state. The initiative promises a cash grant of N20,000 for the most vulnerable segments of society.
Governor Bello commended President Tinubu’s vision and commitment to eradicating poverty in Nigeria. He firmly stated that these grants would significantly contribute to the administration’s overarching goal of uplifting millions from the poverty line.
Highlighting his administration’s dedicated efforts to combat poverty, Governor Bello outlined several ongoing initiatives. These encompass free education from primary to secondary levels, regular food palliatives distribution, and free healthcare services for pregnant women and children. Furthermore, the administration has undertaken the responsibility of covering examination fees for public school students, including the recent disbursement of N497 million for the 2024 WAEC fees in October.
Governor Bello credited these policies to the success of the administration’s Zero-out-School-Children initiative, expressing confidence in the incoming Governor-elect, Ahmed Usman Ododo, to build upon these achievements. He also pledged continued collaboration with federal and local governments to ensure the welfare and prosperity of the people of Kogi State.
