The Federal Government has unveiled a comprehensive aid package, including a N4 billion conditional cash transfer program for vulnerable households and N2 billion interest-free loans to rural farmers.
Announcing these measures during the launch of the 2025 Nigeria Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) at the United Nations House in Abuja recently, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwada, emphasized the government’s commitment to alleviating poverty and fostering resilience in affected communities.
The cash transfer initiative, slated to run from February to April, aims to support 10 million displaced households, prioritizing families impacted by displacement, particularly in the Northeast. The intervention seeks to provide immediate relief to households grappling with the aftermath of conflict and natural disasters.
“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 stated.
The government also approved N2 billion for interest-free loans to rural farmers, offering between N300,000 and N400,000 per household. The initiative is designed to boost food production and enhance economic stability in agricultural communities, linking farmers to resources and market opportunities.
“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.
“Additionally, the government has allocated N2bn to provide interest-free loans to farmers in rural communities. These loans will range from N300,000 to N400,000 per household, helping farmers access necessary resources and linking them to market opportunities.
“Furthermore, a N4bn provision has been approved to support vulnerable groups through cash transfers, targeting families affected by natural disasters and other crises. These interventions are part of the government’s broader strategy to alleviate poverty and provide relief to those in urgent need,” Yilwada explained, adding that the HNRP was developed in collaboration with humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding partners.
“We are combining the efforts of humanitarian, developmental, and peacebuilding platforms to ensure long-term resilience and sustainable solutions for these communities.”
The plan focuses on addressing the needs of internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees, and other vulnerable populations in conflict-affected regions, including Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), an estimated 7.8 million Nigerians in these states will require humanitarian assistance in 2025.
Head of OCHA, Mr. Trond Jensen, noted the critical need for coordinated efforts, stating that this plan provides a roadmap for addressing immediate needs while building resilience and sustainable solutions for affected communities.
