NG-CARES: Anambra, Kaduna Excluded as FG Disburses Over N438bn to 34 States, FCT

The Federal Government has disbursed over N438 billion to 34 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) Programme. However, Anambra and Kaduna states were notably excluded from this round of funding.

The funds are designated for projects aimed at bolstering social safety nets, enhancing food security, and supporting small businesses, with a focus on aiding the most vulnerable populations in Nigeria. The NG-CARES Programme, which commenced in 2021, is set to conclude in December 2024.

Malam Suleiman Odapu, Information and Communication Officer for the Federal CARES Support Unit (FCSU), disclosed in a statement on Tuesday that the latest disbursements were based on the performance outcomes from the third Independent Verification Agency (IVA) assessment conducted in January 2024. The top-performing states—Zamfara, Nasarawa, and Plateau—earned N49.18 billion, N27.20 billion, and N26.31 billion respectively.

Dr. Abdulkarim Obaje, National Coordinator of the NG-CARES Programme, explained that Anambra and Kaduna states were excluded from this disbursement because they did not submit their results for verification during the assessment. He expressed optimism that all 36 states and the FCT would participate in the upcoming fourth IVA exercise scheduled for September 2024.

“This substantial reimbursement is intended to support state governments and the FCT in addressing the urgent challenges of multidimensional poverty,” Obaje stated. He emphasized that the funds would enhance efforts to improve the livelihoods and resilience of the poor and vulnerable segments of the population.

Obaje expressed confidence that the resources would be effectively utilized to provide significant relief and improvements to the lives of many underserved Nigerians. He acknowledged the federal government’s role, particularly praising the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Bagudu, for his leadership in driving the programme forward.

He also commended FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, state governors, and the staff of NG-CARES nationwide for their contributions to the successes achieved thus far. The NG-CARES programme aims to mitigate the adverse socioeconomic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and address other economic shocks by providing grants and essential social infrastructure services in impoverished communities.