Federal Government Reiterates Commitment to Combat Poverty in Partnership with UN
The Federal Government has reiterated its dedication to collaborating with the United Nations (UN) to create sustainable solutions aimed at alleviating poverty for millions of Nigerians. This announcement came from the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nantawe Yilwatda, during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, following a meeting with Amina Mohammed, the Deputy UN Secretary-General.
Yilwatda highlighted that the UN has been a valuable ally to the ministry, assisting the government in implementing various social intervention programs over the years. He emphasized that this partnership is crucial for the execution of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to tackle youth unemployment, poverty alleviation, and provide support for those affected by conflict and climate change.
“We have a unique opportunity to collaborate with the UN to assist those affected by insurgency, climate-related issues, and other forms of armed conflict throughout the country,” Yilwatda stated. He stressed the importance of integrating a human-centered approach in the ongoing economic reforms, particularly for those impacted by these changes.
The minister affirmed that this partnership would yield effective solutions to improve the lives of Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations. “Our goal is to uplift as many people as possible out of poverty, reduce youth unemployment, and enhance the safety of our communities,” he noted.
Yilwatda announced plans to release the 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan soon, which will serve as a roadmap for the government’s efforts to address poverty. “In the coming weeks, we will unveil our Humanitarian Response Plan, detailing the critical humanitarian challenges facing the country,” he explained. “In conjunction with the UN, we aim to mobilize global support to raise funds for these initiatives.”
Additionally, he mentioned that a Durable Solution Plan will be implemented by the first quarter of the year, reinforcing the government’s commitment to poverty reduction. “The President is determined to address poverty and has allocated substantial funding for safety nets in the proposed 2025 Budget, demonstrating a verifiable plan to work alongside the UN in alleviating poverty,” Yilwatda stated.
The ministry has set an ambitious target to generate at least two million jobs by the end of 2025. Meanwhile, the UN Deputy Secretary-General conveyed the organization’s readiness to support the government’s efforts in addressing the multifaceted issue of poverty in Nigeria.
Mohammed reiterated the significance of the ministry, stating that it plays a pivotal role in the UN’s mission to ensure community safety and help lift individuals above the poverty threshold. “Today, people are moving due to different crises, including climate change, conflict, and internal displacement,” she remarked, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian challenges.
She added that addressing poverty in host communities is crucial to prevent social tensions. Mohammed underscored the necessity for increased investment in social intervention strategies to meet the rising humanitarian needs within the country. “Significant investment is essential to facilitate transitions that enhance our resilience,” she concluded.
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