The Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, has announced significant changes in the leadership of several programme clusters in an effort to reenergize and improve the impact of Nigeria’s National Social Safety Net Programme. These modifications are consistent with President Tinubu’s ambitious Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to bring millions of Nigerians out of poverty.
Addressing programme management and staff in Abuja, Minister Edu emphasized the need for renewed energy, a clear sense of direction, and tangible results. She stressed that there is no room for excuses or failure in these critical poverty-alleviation initiatives.
Dr. Edu reiterated that programmes like N-power and other Social Safety Nets were designed to create jobs and improve the lives of Nigerians, not burden them. She reminded program heads that their appointments are under a six-month probationary period, and those who do not meet expectations will be replaced.
Furthermore, she challenged programme leaders to leave their comfortable offices in Abuja and work directly in the field where impoverished citizens live. “Every day, you must be out on the field achieving results. Nigerians are waiting. We have zero tolerance for inefficiency, excuses, and failure. We need results and verifiable results,” she stated.
With over 70 million Nigerians living in extreme poverty, Dr. Edu emphasized the need for a practical and results-driven approach. She highlighted the importance of restructuring the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) to align with President Tinubu’s vision and accelerate progress.
The Minister outlined the priority of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to uplift 133 million Nigerians out of multi-dimensional poverty. She emphasized the need for transparency, accountability, and rebuilding the people’s trust in the government through well-targeted and efficient programs.
Dr. Edu also announced a shift in program nomenclature, such as Renewed Hope GEEP Programme, Renewed Hope Job Creation Scheme (NPower), Renewed Hope for At-Risk Children, Renewed Hope Shelter Programme for Refugees, the Poor, and IDPs, Renewed Hope Community and Social Development, National Cash Transfer Office, and Renewed Hope Grant for Vulnerable Groups.
The Minister’s overarching message is a call for effectiveness, the adoption of a private sector mentality, flexibility, and a strong team spirit within the program implementation teams. She stressed her commitment to achieving tangible results and her willingness to replace underperforming personnel until the desired outcomes are achieved.
In response, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Abel Enitan, commended Minister Edu for her foresight in aligning the programs with the Renewed Hope Agenda. He assured her of the full support of the ministry’s staff and top management in realizing these ambitious objectives.
