The EU has committed €46 million to improve Nigeria’s social protection system through the “Sustainable Social Protection System in Nigeria” program, launched in Abuja. The initiative aims to enhance the National Social Protection Register and is set to be implemented in four states over three years, with support from key international agencies. This program reflects the EU’s long-term commitment to Nigeria’s social development.
The European Union (EU) has allocated €46 million to enhance Nigeria’s social protection framework via the newly initiated program, “Sustainable Social Protection System in Nigeria.” This initiative was formally launched at the United Nations House in Abuja, symbolizing a key advancement in developing Nigeria’s social safety nets. According to Osagie Jacobs J.I, Director of Information & Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Budget and National Planning, this collaborative effort was established between the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and the EU.
The program will first be executed in four states—Abia, Benue, Oyo, and Sokoto—over a span of three years. Its primary goal is to bolster the responsiveness of the social protection system to economic and social crises affecting vulnerable groups. This initiative complements the Nigerian government’s current strategies to deliver target-specific assistance to disadvantaged communities while ensuring that social programs are informed by accurate data.
The implementation will be led by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO). These organizations will offer technical aid, policy guidance, and design expertise to maximize effectiveness. Furthermore, they will partner with the Federal Ministries of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, as well as Labour and Employment, to guarantee that aid reaches those most in need.
Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, emphasized the Nigerian government’s dedication to this initiative, indicating that it marks a critical step toward reinforcing the country’s social protection system. The EU’s financial support emphasizes its sustained commitment to Nigeria’s social development, having previously funded various programs aimed at alleviating poverty, enhancing healthcare, and fortifying governance.
The Sustainable Social Protection System in Nigeria program is intended to formulate a more inclusive and resilient social assistance framework, ensuring that the most vulnerable populations receive necessary support during challenging economic conditions. Key outcomes anticipated from the SUSI project include an improved National Social Register, enhanced capacity-building for policymakers, stronger legal frameworks, and a more effective Social Protection Management Information System.
In summary, the European Union’s €46 million commitment to Nigeria through the “Sustainable Social Protection System in Nigeria” program represents a significant investment in enhancing the country’s social safety nets. This initiative aims to improve the social protection infrastructure by focusing on responsiveness to crises, ensuring data-driven interventions, and fostering partnerships with key organizations. The expected outcomes of this program will contribute to creating a more robust social support mechanism for vulnerable populations in Nigeria.
Original Source: nairametrics.com
