The deputy governor of Taraba State, Aminu Alkali, has announced an expansion of the state’s social safety net, aiming to reach more vulnerable individuals across the region.
This initiative is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to alleviate poverty and support the livelihoods of those in need.
Speaking in Jalingo, the state capital, over the weekend during the disbursement of N524 million to 10,409 beneficiaries, Alkali highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable households.
He emphasized that the disbursement of livelihood grants is a key strategy in this effort.
“The first and second phases of this program supported 2,680 youths and women,” Alkali said.
“This third tranche targets 10,449 beneficiaries across the 16 local government areas of the state and two special development areas.”
Alkali expressed optimism that, with the current trajectory and focus of the state government, Taraba could soon eliminate poverty among its citizens.
“With what we are doing, we hope that in the next year, Taraba will have no record of vulnerable persons,” he added.
The deputy governor also urged beneficiaries to use the funds wisely to expand their small and medium enterprises, contributing to the revival of the local economy and the creation of more jobs.
The State Commissioner for Cooperative and Poverty Alleviation, James Habu, also spoke at the event, noting that beneficiaries received between N50,000 each as support.
He detailed the financial commitment of the state government, stating that N101.9 million was disbursed during the first phase and N100 million during the second. The third phase saw an increase in the number of beneficiaries to over 10,000, leading to the substantial disbursement of N524 million.
“This government is determined to eradicate poverty, and we are fully committed to this cause,” Habu affirmed.
