🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Over 460,000 households benefit from cash transfer in Kwara State
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Federal Government and Kwara State Government are intensifying social protection efforts, with over 460,000 households benefiting from the Household Prosperity and Empowerment Cash Transfer Programme. This was announced during a visit by Dr. Bernard M. Doro, Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, to Ilorin. The engagement brought together federal and state officials, development partners, and beneficiaries from across the state's 16 local government areas. Dr. Doro commended Kwara State for its strong implementation and commitment, calling the program a critical pillar in Nigeria's poverty reduction strategy and a model for federal-state collaboration. He emphasized transparency, accountability, and data-driven targeting to reach vulnerable households and urged beneficiaries to use funds judiciously. The Minister assured continued federal commitment to scaling humanitarian interventions. Mariam Imam, Kwara State Commissioner for Social Development, highlighted the program's alignment with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's vision for social inclusion, particularly for orphans, vulnerable children, persons with disabilities, and the elderly. She noted that the HOPE-CT program has reached over 183,000 households in the first phase, 139,000 in the second, and 141,000 in the third. Bolanle Olukoju, Commissioner for Communications, stated that over 463,000 households are expected to benefit. Dr. AbdulWasiu Tejidini, Acting General Manager of KWASSIP, noted Kwa
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, called on media practitioners to be ambassadors of truth and uphold ethical standards to support national security and development. Speaking at the closing of the Directorate of Army Public Relations Media Workshop 2026 in Abuja, Anele emphasized the media's critical role in shaping national security outcomes through accurate and responsible reporting. The workshop, themed "Media Integration as a Force Multiplier for Joint and Multi-Agency Operational Success," highlighted the strategic importance of media operations and the growing relevance of Artificial Intelligence AI in improving information management and rapid communication. Anele stated that AI is a strategic necessity, not a luxury, in today's information environment. She stressed that information is a decisive operational component and that success in modern military operations requires synergy between armed services, security agencies, and the media. Anele urged participants to apply the workshop's lessons to ensure professionalism, accuracy, and responsibility, thereby countering misinformation and strengthening public confidence in security operations. She concluded by commending all contributors for their commitment to a safer, stronger, and more united Nigeria.
Must ReadA coalition of Nigerian civil society organizations, trade unions, youth groups, and other associations has announced nationwide protests and mass action for June 12. The groups, including the Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond, the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, and the #EndBadGovernance Movement, are protesting worsening insecurity, escalating economic hardship, and deteriorating living conditions for millions of Nigerians. They aim to demand the immediate release of Nigerians held captive in various states, highlighting that there is nothing to celebrate on June 12 due to ongoing fear of attacks from terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers. The coalition stated that government responses to insecurity have been largely inadequate, with communities attacked, schools threatened, and highways unsafe. They also criticized the economic policies of the President Bola Tinubu administration, such as fuel subsidy removal, repeated fuel price increases, currency devaluation, and rising electricity tariffs, which they say have pushed millions into deeper poverty despite increased government allocations. The coalition urged Nigerians to join the protests to compel the government to address insecurity and reverse what they describe as anti-poor economic policies.
The Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC has advised beneficiaries of its 2026/2027 Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship Programme to prioritize academic excellence, uphold good character, and avoid social vices, especially drug abuse, during their studies abroad. NDDC Managing Director, Samuel Ogbuku, addressed 200 scholarship awardees at a pre-departure briefing in Port Harcourt, urging them to be exemplary ambassadors for the Niger Delta region and Nigeria. He emphasized that the scholarship offers a unique chance to acquire knowledge and skills vital for regional development. Ogbuku noted that previous beneficiaries achieved academic distinction, with over 30 students earning distinctions in the last academic session. He assured prompt payment of scholarship allowances but warned that poor conduct or academic performance could lead to scholarship withdrawal. Ogbuku cautioned against drug abuse, highlighting its destructive impact and the need for young leaders with sound minds. Dr. Patience Ezugu, Director of Education, Health and Social Services, described the scheme as an investment in the Niger Delta's future, aimed at human capital development. Mrs. Angela Chukwudifu, Director of Education, advised scholars to secure travel and academic documents. Chief Godson Ideozu, the scholarship consultant, stated that 200 beneficiaries were selected from 2,492 candidates. Miss Aisosa Margaret from Edo State, the top candidate, will study Advanced Mechanical Engineering at the Uni