The Federal Government, led by President Bola Tinubu, has approved a N4 billion intervention fund to provide conditional cash transfers to vulnerable households across Nigeria.
The initiative aims to address the growing humanitarian needs in the country.
Speaking at the launch of the 2025 Nigeria Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) held at the United Nations House in Abuja, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwada, outlined the government’s commitment to supporting displaced households and vulnerable communities.
The cash transfer program, set to run from February to April, is expected to reach at least 10 million displaced households, with a particular focus on families affected by conflicts in the Northeast.
In addition to the cash transfer initiative, the government has allocated N2 billion for interest-free loans to rural farmers. This measure is aimed at boosting food production and reducing poverty in underserved communities.
“We are prioritizing women, especially widows, pregnant women, and those with disabilities. The experiences of displaced women, particularly those facing pregnancy or disability, are especially challenging. We understand these vulnerabilities and will continue to support those who are most in need,” Yilwada said.
He added,
“The President has approved the Ministry’s plan to begin paying conditional cash transfers to 10 million displaced households between February and April. This initiative aims to support those most in need, particularly vulnerable families affected by displacement.”
On the agricultural front, Yilwada noted that interest-free loans ranging from N300,000 to N400,000 per household have been approved to assist rural farmers.
“These loans will help farmers access necessary resources and connect to market opportunities,” he explained.
The minister also announced that the N4 billion cash transfer programme will target families impacted by natural disasters and other crises, describing it as part of the government’s broader strategy to alleviate poverty and provide relief to those in urgent need.
Yilwada highlighted the government’s focus on addressing the unique challenges faced by internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees, and communities affected by conflict.
The HNRP, he explained, was developed through comprehensive consultations and focuses on humanitarian challenges in Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, and other conflict-hit regions.
“We are combining the efforts of humanitarian, developmental, and peacebuilding platforms to ensure long-term resilience and sustainable solutions for these communities,” he added.
Emphasizing the importance of gender inclusion in these interventions, Yilwada underscored the focus on female-headed households, who face heightened risks such as gender-based violence, child marriage, and food insecurity.
“Female-headed households experience higher rates of hunger than male-headed ones, and this is where we will focus much of our efforts. Ensuring access to food, water, healthcare, and safety for these women is one of our top priorities,” he said.
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