Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, has flagged off the Presidential Food and Nutrition Assistance in Niger State at the Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre, Minna. This was contained in a statement signed by Chinyere A. Ulasi, Head, Information and Public Relations Unit.
Speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard M. Doro described the intervention as a people-centered response aimed at addressing food insecurity, preventing malnutrition among children under five, supporting pregnant and lactating women, and providing relief to displaced and vulnerable households.
He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the One Humanitarian–One Poverty Response System (OHOPRS), integrating beneficiaries captured in the expanded National Social Register into sustainable poverty-reduction programmes such as livelihood support, skills development, and financial inclusion.
Dr. Doro noted that while Niger State plays a strategic role in national food production and hydroelectric power generation, recurrent flooding, insecurity, displacement, and climate-related shocks have increased vulnerabilities. He assured that the Federal Government is prioritizing proactive and anticipatory measures to strengthen protection for affected communities.
In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Olubunmi Olusanya, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to transparent, accountable, and efficient service delivery, stressing the importance of effective targeting and collaboration with the Niger State Government and partners.
The Executive Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Mohammed Umaru Bago, expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Ministry for sustained support. He highlighted the humanitarian pressures arising from Dam overflows and insecurity and called for stronger collaboration to promote stability and ensure displaced children access education.
The event featured a symbolic flag-off and inspection tour by the Minister and Governor, during which beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the timely intervention.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to data-driven and accountable humanitarian service delivery, ensuring vulnerable Nigerians receive immediate relief while being connected to sustainable pathways out of poverty.
END
