The Government of Abia State has launched the European Union (EU)-funded project, Supporting Sustainable Social Protection Systems in Nigeria (SUSI), in collaboration with UNICEF, the International Labour Organisation (ILO), and other partners, to enhance effective access to social protection.
UNICEF, in a joint statement by its Communication Specialist, Mr Samuel Kaalu, noted that despite its importance, social protection coverage in Nigeria remains limited, emphasising that in the International Labour Organisation 2024 World Social Protection report, only 14.8 per cent of Nigerians currently have access to effective social protection.
“To close this gap, the project, which is also being implemented in Benue, Oyo, and Sokoto States, is designed to strengthen inclusive, shock-responsive, and sustainable social protection systems. It aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Eight-Point Agenda, aiming to reduce poverty, protect the most vulnerable, and promote resilient livelihoods.”
Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, at the event, reaffirmed the State’s commitment to the child protection project, expressing gladness that the EU, ILO, and UNICEF will be partnering with the State Government towards the successful delivery of the SUSI Project.
“We are encouraged to think of our children and the world we want to bequeath to them. Individually and collectively, we are called to remember that every decision counts, that we do not own anything but are merely custodians who would one day be required to look back, either in regret or fulfilment.”
EU, UNICEF, ILO launch €13m social protection project in Abia https://t.co/xkW1nToi8v pic.twitter.com/wWcfYDY9oP
— EU in Nigeria 🇪🇺🇳🇬 (@EUinNigeria) September 25, 2025
The EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, underlined the importance of the EU’s support, stressing that Social protection is central to building equitable societies.
“This partnership demonstrates our continued commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians, particularly in states like Abia, by strengthening systems that can provide support when it is needed most.”
UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed, highlighted the transformative impact of inclusive systems. She said social protection is not just a safety net; it is a springboard for inclusive development.
“Through this project, we aim to ensure that every child and family, particularly the most vulnerable, is protected from the shocks that can derail their well-being and opportunities for a better future.”
Director of the ILO Country Office for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone and Liaison Office for ECOWAS, Vanessa Phala, stressed the importance of long-term sustainability, explaining that a well-designed and inclusive social protection system is fundamental to decent work, economic stability, and social cohesion.
“With this project, we are working together to ensure that social protection becomes a reality for more Nigerians.”
The implementation of the SUSI project will support the development of social protection policy, expansion of the social register, capacity building, strengthening the database system, and ensuring that social protection programmes are well budgeted for, at both the federal and state levels.
