The Federal Government, in collaboration with the European Union (EU), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and other partners, has inaugurated a ₦21.7 billion Sustainable Social Protection System in Nigeria (SUSI).
Inaugurating the programme in Makurdi on Wednesday, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, said the SUSI project would further integrate the Nigerian people.
Yilwatda described the SUSI initiative as a lifeline for victims of terrorism in the country.
He explained that the Federal Government was also implementing several safety net programmes through the ministry to improve the living conditions of Nigerians, especially the extremely poor.
“The SUSI project, with €10 million in funding (₦21.7bn) from the European Union and implemented by UNICEF and other agencies, will complement our national efforts such as the National Social Register, the Conditional Cash Transfer, our Durable Solutions, and the National Safety Nets Programme.
“This project is coming at the right time, with the right partners, and building on the right foundation. Every partner I see here is one I have worked and engaged with. I know the quality of integration they will bring to make social protection in Nigeria inclusive and responsive,” he said.
The Minister emphasised the need for stakeholders to work together and take decisive action to support victims.
“Our actions from this moment forward should reflect the magnitude of their loss and the urgency of the suffering faced by displaced persons and homeless communities from Yelewata.
“Even in the shadow of tragedy, we gather here today with hope. Our hope is renewed because the launch of the SUSI project is a lifeline for these vulnerable groups.
“It is a deliberate effort to say ‘never again’ should our communities fall through the cracks of our safety nets. We will not allow it to happen again,” he said.
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Yilwatda commended the EU and other donor agencies for their consistent support to Nigeria and its citizens, noting that their interventions have reached even the most remote internally displaced populations.
In his remarks, Governor Hyacinth Alia said the state was in dire need of humanitarian support due to increasing attacks on communities.
Represented by his Deputy, Dr Sam Ode, the governor described the social protection system as an inclusive initiative that would promote development, human dignity, and economic revival for victims in Benue and beyond.
“The launch of the EU-supported Social Protection Programme through UNICEF comes at a critical moment for our state. This programme affirms that we are not merely managing poverty we are building pathways to dignity and self-reliance.
“The humanitarian situation in Benue is worsening, with fresh displacements occurring frequently. Thousands of families have been forced to flee once again and are now living in makeshift shelters without access to adequate food, water, or security.
“I assure you of our unwavering commitment. We will not rest until every IDP in our state has a safe place to call home,” he said.
