Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, is standing firm against criticism of the ministry’s handling of humanitarian crises. In a recent interview, he highlighted the significant impact of social support schemes, revealing that they have benefited a staggering 6 million Nigerians. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
- 6 Million Nigerians Benefited: Social support schemes have reached a massive number of citizens.
- Comprehensive Planning: Focus on agricultural support and long-term recovery for displaced communities.
- EU Support: The European Union contributed significantly to relief efforts.
- National Priority: Minister emphasizes prioritizing national concerns over local politics.
- Digital IDs Expanding: Aiming to reach millions more households with financial aid.
Minister Fires Back at Critics: Relief Efforts Underway!
Amidst growing concerns about the government’s response to humanitarian challenges, particularly in areas hit by disaster like Benue, Niger, Plateau, and Mokwa, Minister Yilwatda is defending the ministry’s actions. He asserts that comprehensive relief efforts are not only underway but making a real difference in the lives of millions.
Benue State: A Case Study in Action
Yilwatda highlighted the situation in Benue State’s Elbe-Embata community, where over 3,100 people were displaced. A thorough needs assessment was conducted, revealing the dire circumstances faced by residents.
“About 810 displaced children are of school age, and 48 homes and several shops were destroyed,” Yilwatda explained. In response, a comprehensive humanitarian and peace-building plan was developed with a budget of ₦6.7 billion. The European Union has stepped up, contributing €1.5 million (approximately ₦2.7 billion) to the initiative. This EU contribution underscores the importance of international partnerships in addressing humanitarian crises.
“We’ve visited every affected community, conducted assessments, and engaged partners including the UN and EU to provide coordinated responses,” he added, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the efforts.
Addressing Concerns About Plateau State
The North Central APC Forum accused the Minister of neglecting his home state, Plateau State. Yilwatda vehemently denied these claims, stating that he had visited affected Local Government Areas (LGAs) multiple times, engaging with youth groups, traditional rulers, and community members.
“I was in Bokkos, Riyom, and other affected LGAs several times. We engaged youth groups, traditional rulers, and visited the communities,” he stated. He also addressed concerns about potential political rivalries influencing his decisions, dismissing them as unfounded.
“Sometimes I can’t respond the same day something happens because I have national assignments,” Yilwatda explained, highlighting the demands of his role as a federal minister.
Mokwa and Niger State: Clarifying the Record
Regarding the situation in Niger State, specifically Mokwa, where victims were allegedly promised one million naira per life lost, Yilwatda clarified that the federal government works in tandem with state-level agencies.
“We work in coordination with SEMA and others. Distribution and oversight lie primarily with the state,” he emphasized, clarifying the division of responsibilities.
The Role of NGOs: Coordination, Not Supervision
In response to claims that NGOs provide the majority of water and aid at IDP camps, Yilwatda clarified the federal ministry’s role.
“We provide coordination, not supervision. We ensure proper material distribution and engage NGOs, sub-nationals, and embassies to serve those in need,” he explained, underscoring the importance of a collaborative approach involving various stakeholders.
Conditional Cash Transfer Program: Reaching Millions
Yilwatda proudly announced that six million Nigerians have already benefited from the conditional cash transfer program since the current administration took office. This represents a significant increase compared to the previous nine years, where only two million individuals benefited.
“In nine years before now, only two million had benefited. Our goal is to reach 15 million households,” he stated, outlining the ambitious goals of the program. Each beneficiary undergoes a rigorous verification process, including location, contact, and identification data.
Ensuring Credibility: The Social Register
Concerns about the credibility of the social register were addressed, with Yilwatda explaining that it is built from community-based targeting, validated by leaders and statistical criteria.
“It’s built from community-based targeting, validated by leaders and statistical criteria. While not perfect because poverty is dynamic it reflects real needs,” he asserted.
The register also includes persons with disabilities, with approximately 7.8 million individuals with disabilities currently registered. Efforts are being made to ensure the inclusion of women, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups.
Looking Ahead: Long-Term Solutions
Yilwatda concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to long-term solutions, focusing on agricultural support and durable recovery for displaced communities. The government is not just providing immediate relief but planning for a more sustainable future.
“We’re not just reacting, we’re planning agricultural support and durable recovery for displaced communities,” Yilwatda emphasized.
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