A European Union–supported initiative aimed at advancing social protection and reducing poverty in Nigeria has called for greater collaboration among government agencies, civil society organisations, and the media to enhance public awareness and improve the implementation of welfare programs.
The project, co-funded by the European Union and implemented by Bread for the World (Brot), the African Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), and the New Initiative for Social Development (NISD), focuses on understanding why social protection remains one of the most effective strategies for reducing poverty, narrowing inequality gaps, and promoting social justice.
At a stakeholder engagement held in Ekiti State, participants, including government officials, youth representatives, civil society organisations (CSOs), and the National Orientation Agency (NOA)—recommended improved publicity, better identification of vulnerable communities, and more effective monitoring and feedback mechanisms to strengthen the impact of social protection initiatives under the government’s Special Development Plan.
In his welcome address, the Manager of NISD, Mr. Segun Ojo, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to promoting social protection across households in the state, describing the initiative as a practical tool for reducing poverty and inequality.
Also speaking, the State Programme Officer for NISD, Racheal Olori, outlined the objectives of the programme, emphasising the importance of aligning policy frameworks with the needs of the poor and marginalised.
The Special Adviser to the Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs. Olapeju Babafemi, represented by Mrs. Olukemi Akinleye, praised NISD’s efforts, noting that the initiative aligns with Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s development agenda focused on inclusive growth and community welfare.
Similarly, the Executive Secretary of the Social Investment Coordinating Agency, Mr. Ogundele O.S., commended the government’s ongoing welfare initiatives but expressed concern that many citizens remain unaware of their social protection rights, calling for intensified sensitisation efforts.
Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Mr. Abiodun Ariyo highlighted the need for stronger social development frameworks, especially in light of recent policy reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidy, which have placed additional economic burdens on citizens.
Other dignitaries in attendance included the Director of NOA, Mrs. Oluwakemi Akomolede; President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (Ekiti Chapter), Comrade Bankole; a representative of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Miss Oba Ademola; Chairman of the Coalition of Ekiti Civil Society Organisations, Mr. Timothy Idowu; and Chairperson of FIDA, Mrs. Ayobami Olowoyo.
The initiative has plans to build a robust and inclusive social protection framework by fostering dialogue among key stakeholders and ensuring that every citizen, particularly the most vulnerable, benefits from equitable and sustainable development policies.
