Over 600,000 Households Benefit as FG Resumes Cash Transfer Scheme
In a significant step towards economic recovery and growth, the Federal Government of Nigeria has resumed its direct cash transfer programme, benefiting over 600,000 households. The announcement was made by Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance, during a ministerial press briefing in Abuja themed “Economic Recovery and Growth: Progress and Prospects 2024.”
Resumption of Conditional Cash Transfer Scheme
The resumption of the cash transfer programme follows President Bola Tinubu’s directive on July 18, 2023, to review the conditional cash transfer scheme. This initiative, coordinated by the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), was suspended for six weeks as part of an investigation into alleged malfeasance in the management of the agency and its programmes. The suspension aimed to ensure transparency and accountability in the administration of social protection initiatives.
Government’s Commitment to Welfare
During the press briefing, Minister Edun emphasized the government’s commitment to the welfare of ordinary Nigerians. He highlighted that over 600,000 households have already received direct cash transfers this week, demonstrating the government’s dedication to providing financial support to those in need.
“Following the resumption of payments, over 600,000 households have already received this direct transfer this week,” Edun stated in a press release by Mohammed Manga, the ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations.
Economic Reforms and Progress
Minister Edun also discussed the government’s significant strides in economic reforms. He noted that these reforms are on track to achieve a step-change in government revenues, closely aligning with the 2024 budget. The minister announced the government’s exit from the ways and means borrowing mechanism and highlighted the projected budget deficit of 4% for the 2024 fiscal year.
Despite acknowledging the temporary hardships caused by these reforms, Edun assured that Nigerians would soon benefit from the expected outcomes. He pointed to the deceleration in inflation growth and a rise in foreign investments as evidence of the positive impact of the government’s well-coordinated economic policies.
Focus on Reducing Food Prices
One of the government’s major priorities in the immediate term is to reduce food prices and support increased local food production. This focus is crucial given the significant impact of high food prices on inflation. Efforts are underway to achieve this goal, with the government providing necessary support to boost local food production.
Turning the Economic Corner
Reflecting on the outcomes of the first half of 2024, Minister Edun expressed optimism about the country’s economic trajectory. He stated that with macroeconomic stability, Nigeria is well-positioned for sustained and inclusive growth. This growth aims to create jobs, lift millions out of poverty, and attract domestic and foreign investments, ultimately improving the general wellbeing of the average Nigerian.
Conclusion
The resumption of the cash transfer scheme marks a critical step in Nigeria’s journey towards economic recovery and growth. The government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the welfare of its citizens is evident in its ongoing efforts to implement economic reforms and support social protection initiatives. As the country continues to navigate economic challenges, these measures are expected to yield significant benefits for the Nigerian populace.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the conditional cash transfer scheme?
The conditional cash transfer scheme is a social protection initiative coordinated by the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) that provides direct cash transfers to vulnerable households in Nigeria.
2. How many households have benefited from the cash transfer scheme?
Over 600,000 households have benefited from the cash transfer scheme following its resumption.
3. What prompted the review of the cash transfer scheme?
President Bola Tinubu ordered a review of the conditional cash transfer scheme to ensure transparency and accountability in its administration, following allegations of malfeasance in the management of the programme.
4. What are the expected outcomes of the government’s economic reforms?
The government’s economic reforms aim to achieve macroeconomic stability, create jobs, reduce poverty, attract investments, and improve the general wellbeing of Nigerians.
5. What measures is the government taking to reduce food prices?
The government is focused on supporting increased local food production to reduce food prices, which is a major priority given the impact of high food prices on inflation.
6. What is the projected budget deficit for the 2024 fiscal year?
The projected budget deficit for the 2024 fiscal year is 4%.
7. How is the government supporting economic recovery and growth?
The government is implementing well-coordinated economic policies, exiting from borrowing mechanisms, and providing financial support through initiatives like the cash transfer scheme to drive economic recovery and growth.