$800 Million Conditional Cash Transfer Program
The National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) actively commits to ensuring accountability and transparency in implementing the $800 million World Bank Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program. Hajiya Halima Shehu, the National Coordinator of NSIPA, provided an update on the program during a news conference in Abuja.
The Purpose of the Program
The CCT program actively aims to support the poorest Nigerians, including the Almajiri and out-of-school children, through the National Home-Grown School Feeding initiative. It actively operates as a fully funded project by the World Bank, boasting a budget of $800 million.
Beneficiary Selection Process
The beneficiaries actively undergo identification through a National Social Register, which authorities compile from the social registers of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The National Cash Transfer Office is responsible for selecting the beneficiaries from this register. It’s crucial to note that the selection process actively avoids influence from any political figures, thereby ensuring fairness and transparency.
Digitalization and Accountability
The CCT scheme has actively undergone full digitization, and each enrollee on the social register actively possesses a bank account. Plans are also underway to allocate National Identity Numbers (NIN) to all beneficiaries, further strengthening the transparency and accountability process.
The Role of NSIPA
The NSIPA Act actively became law in May 2023, empowering the agency to assist and uplift numerous Nigerians out of poverty. The agency is responsible for implementing various poverty alleviation programs, including the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP) and the National Home-Grown School Feeding Program.
Other Programs under NSIPA
Under NSIPA, there are additional programs such as the Unconditional Cash Transfer Program, which targets physically challenged individuals and senior citizens. The Alternate School Program focuses on out-of-school and at-risk children. These programs aim to harmonize and coordinate social intervention efforts in Nigeria, to improve the standard of living for those at the bottom of the socio-economic pyramid.
Conclusion
The NSIPA is dedicated to ensuring transparency and accountability in the implementation of the $800 million Conditional Cash Transfer program. Through the use of digital systems, fair beneficiary selection processes, and collaboration with national and international development agencies, the agency aims to uplift Nigerians out of poverty and improve their livelihoods.
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