The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, who made the disbursement on Tuesday 23rd March 2021, while flagging off the programme in Asaba, the state capital, said the grant is targeted at 3, 300 rural women, to increase the income and productive assets of the poor and vulnerable in the State.
Represented by Director of Humanitarian Affairs, Alhaji Alli Grema, the Minister tasked them to make judicious use of the grant to improve on their welfare and well-being, disclosing that the funds are seed to boost their trade as well as lift them out of poverty.
The minister revealed that the federal government gave out the grant for those in the rural areas to feel belongs in the scheme of things, but advised that the grant should not be seen as a share of the National cake.
The State Director, National Social Investment Programme, Barr. Bridget Anyafulu, said the programme is to increase their income, strengthen their productive activities, enhance their food security and improve on their families well-being.
According to her, the ultimate goals are to uplift the social-economic status of rural women, reduce poverty and boost rural economy.
She posited asserted that the success of the programme could go a long way in alleviating the suffering of rural women, facilitate the economic growth and sustainable development of the country.
She emphasized that the rural women cash programme, is a drive and efforts of government to combat extreme poverty, reduce inequality and cushion the effect of Covid-19 pandemic.
One of the beneficiaries, a physically challenged woman, Mrs. Augustina Airenogbuan, who could not hide her feelings, eulogized the federal government for choosing her to be part of the grant.
