By Joyce Remi – Babayeju
The Federal Government has flagged off the Niger State wing of the Presidential Food and Nutrition Assistance programme at the Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre, Minna.
The Minister, Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro, speaking at the event described the intervention as a people-centered response aimed at addressing food insecurity, preventing malnutrition among children under five, supporting pregnant and lactating women, and providing relief to displaced and vulnerable households.
Doro stated that the initiative aligns with the One Humanitarian–One Poverty Response System (OHOPRS), integrating beneficiaries captured in the expanded National Social Register into sustainable poverty-reduction programmes such as livelihood support, skills development, and financial inclusion.
Dr. Doro noted that while Niger State plays a strategic role in national food production and hydroelectric power generation; recurrent flooding, insecurity, displacement, and climate-related shocks have increased vulnerabilities.
However, the minister assured that the Federal Government is prioritizing proactive and anticipatory measures to strengthen protection for affected communities.
The Permanent Secretary, Olubunmi Olusanya, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to transparent, accountable, and efficient service delivery, stressing the importance of effective targeting and collaboration with the Niger State Government and partners.
The Niger State governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, expressed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ministry for the sustained humanitarian support.
Gov. Bago who highlighted the humanitarian pressures arising from Dam overflows and insecurity, called for stronger collaboration to promote stability and ensure displaced children access education.
The event featured a symbolic flag-off and inspection tour by the Minister and Governor, during which beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the timely intervention.”
The Ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to data-driven and accountable humanitarian service delivery to ensuring vulnerable Nigerians receive immediate relief while being connected to sustainable pathways out of poverty.
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