The federal government has approved a N4 billion allocation for conditional cash transfers to support vulnerable households across Nigeria.
Speaking at the launch of the 2025 Nigeria Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) at the United Nations House in Abuja on Thursday, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwada, outlined the initiative aimed at addressing the nation’s growing humanitarian challenges.
The Nation reports that the programme will assist at least 10 million displaced households, focusing on the most vulnerable members of society.
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The cash transfers are scheduled to begin in February and run through April, targeting families affected by displacement, particularly in the Northeast.
Announcing the initiative, Professor Yilwada stated: “We are prioritising 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.
“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.”
In addition to the cash transfer programme, the government has approved N2 billion for interest-free loans to farmers in rural areas to enhance food production and self-sufficiency.
“Additionally, the government has allocated N2 billion to provide interest-free loans to farmers in rural communities,” Yilwada noted. “These loans will range from N300,000 to N400,000 per household, helping farmers access necessary resources and linking them to market opportunities.”
He further highlighted additional relief measures, saying, “A N4 billion 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.”
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees, and affected communities nationwide.
He explained that the HNRP was developed through extensive consultations and designed to address the humanitarian needs of conflict-affected regions, including Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe.
“We are combining the efforts of humanitarian, developmental, and peacebuilding platforms to ensure long-term resilience and sustainable solutions for these communities,” Yilwada concluded.
