In a significant move to bolster Nigeria’s social protection systems, the European Union (EU), in collaboration with UNICEF and the International Labour Organization (ILO), has launched a €13 million project aimed at building more resilient and inclusive safety nets for vulnerable populations across the country.
The EU-funded Strengthening Social Protection Systems to be Shock-Responsive and Inclusive (SUSI) project will be implemented by UNICEF and ILO in Benue, Abia, Oyo, and Sokoto States, as well as at the federal level.
The initiative is designed to help Nigeria develop robust mechanisms that respond swiftly to shocks, reduce poverty, and protect vulnerable groups, including children, women, persons with disabilities, and those affected by conflict and displacement.
A Timely Intervention in the Wake of Crisis
The launch in Makurdi comes in the wake of a deadly attack in Yelwata, Benue State, which left dozens dead and displaced over 3,000 people, including more than 500 children.
The tragedy underscores the urgent need for responsive systems that can offer immediate support to crisis-hit populations.
“The recent violence in Benue is a painful reminder of how vulnerable communities are to shocks,” said H.E. Gautier Mignot, Ambassador of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS.
“The EU is committed to building stronger, more inclusive social protection systems through this partnership, ensuring no one is left behind.”
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A Safety Net for the Most Vulnerable
Cristian Munduate, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, highlighted the life-saving role of social protection during crises.
“When families flee violence, lose their income, or face poverty, social protection becomes a lifeline. SUSI aims to create systems that respond quickly and reach the most in need—especially children—before their futures are irreparably affected.”
Vanessa Phala, Director of the ILO Country Office for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, reiterated the programme’s alignment with social justice:
“Social protection is not just a service—it is a right. This project will strengthen laws, data systems, and funding mechanisms to ensure that every Nigerian has the opportunity to live with dignity and security.”
Local and National Support for SUSI
Welcoming the project’s launch in Benue, Governor Hyacinth Alia said the initiative was crucial for rebuilding lives and restoring dignity in communities ravaged by violence and displacement.
“Benue has endured waves of violence and economic hardship. This initiative will empower us to reach vulnerable families quickly and ensure no one falls through the cracks again.”
Also speaking at the event, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, praised the project’s synergy with the Nigerian government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This project is perfectly aligned with our mission to institutionalise an inclusive, shock-responsive social protection system. With SUSI’s multi-stakeholder approach, we are better equipped to ensure that no crisis leaves Nigerian families without support or hope.”
Driving Implementation Through Collaboration
The launch event brought together a cross-section of stakeholders—federal and state government officials, development partners, civil society organisations, and the media—to galvanise support and promote collaboration for successful implementation.