Betta Edu’s Bold Pledge: Propelling 50 Million Nigerians from Poverty in Just 42 Months

Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, recently unveiled a bold governmental strategy aimed at lifting 50 million people out of poverty within the next 42 months. This ambitious plan was disclosed during an interview with Channels TV, where Edu highlighted the collaborative efforts involving her ministry and other key government entities to drive economic growth in Nigeria.

In her statement, Minister Edu emphasized the deliberate commitment of President Bola Tinubu to various poverty alleviation programs designed to support vulnerable populations across the nation. She outlined the multifaceted approach to achieving this significant poverty reduction goal, involving inter-ministerial partnerships, particularly with the Ministry of Trade and Industries. Edu specifically noted the support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through loans provided by the President, targeting individuals engaged in diverse small-scale businesses nationwide.

The minister underscored the intentional nature of the government’s initiatives, portraying President Tinubu as a leader deeply concerned about the welfare of the poor and vulnerable in society. She outlined ongoing collaborations with international partners and the World Bank, signaling a global effort to address poverty in Nigeria. The overarching vision is to lift 50 million people out of poverty within the stipulated timeframe of 42 months.

Addressing a specific concern, Minister Edu touched upon the resumption of payments for beneficiaries of the N-Power initiative, a government program initiated on June 8, 2016, under the leadership of former President Muhammadu Buhari. Edu acknowledged that some beneficiaries had been owed salaries by the previous administration, and the current government, under President Tinubu, has resumed payments of arrears.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to resolving outstanding issues, Edu assured that the payment of arrears to N-Power beneficiaries commenced recently and would continue until every individual received their due compensation. The minister conveyed a sense of urgency, describing the government’s efforts to expedite this process and ensure that the beneficiaries, who had diligently served the nation, receive their rightful payments.

Edu clarified that the Renewed Hope N-Power program had not been relaunched yet, as the government was first addressing outstanding financial matters from previous years. The temporary suspension of the program after President Tinubu assumed office was explained as part of the broader strategy to rectify issues before restarting the initiative.

In shedding light on the complexities involved, Minister Edu explained that funds designated for N-Power beneficiaries were previously managed by a consultant. Unfortunately, these funds were withheld for several months, causing delays in disbursement to the intended recipients. The government, in response, reclaimed the funds into the Treasury Single Account (TSA) at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The subsequent scrutiny of beneficiaries further contributed to the extended duration required for the process.

Despite the challenges, Edu urged patience from the N-Power beneficiaries, emphasizing the government’s dedication to resolving outstanding issues and ensuring that the renewed initiative effectively contributes to reducing unemployment and creating job opportunities for Nigerians.

In summary, Dr. Betta Edu’s recent revelations highlight the Nigerian government’s ambitious goal of lifting 50 million people out of poverty within the next 42 months, showcasing a collaborative and intentional approach across various ministries. The commitment to resolving financial issues related to the N-Power program reflects a broader strategy aimed at fostering economic growth, reducing unemployment, and supporting vulnerable populations under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu. As the government addresses past challenges, it is poised to usher in a renewed era of hope and economic prosperity for the Nigerian people.