The Federal Government has distributed more than N438 billion to 34 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as part of the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) Programme.
This funding, aimed at alleviating poverty and enhancing the livelihoods of the vulnerable, was determined based on results from the third Independent Verification Agency (IVA) assessment conducted in January 2024.
Dr. Abdulkarim Obaje, National Coordinator of the NG-CARES Programme, announced that all 36 states and the FCT are expected to participate in the fourth IVA assessment scheduled for September 2024.
Established in response to the socioeconomic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, NG-CARES aims to provide grants and essential services in impoverished communities and is set to conclude in December 2024.
States receiving significant allocations include Cross River with N20.67 billion, Rivers with N19.52 billion, and Niger with N17.77 billion. Other notable allocations are Adamawa with N17.54 billion, Katsina with N15.46 billion, and Imo with N15.41 billion.
The funds are directed towards social safety nets, food security, and support for small businesses, ensuring assistance reaches the most vulnerable populations.