NG-Cares: Benue State empowers over 60,000 Residents with N4.9 billion

Over 60,000 residents in Benue State, Northern Nigeria, have received 4.9 billion naira in grants through the NG-Cares programme, with a focus on supporting vulnerable groups including People With Disabilities.

Mrs. Jacyntha Tor-Wombo, the programme coordinator, disclosed this during a media interface in Makurdi, the state capital.

The program, known as “Alia Care,” aims to address the needs of the less privileged by utilizing a social register to identify beneficiaries fairly.

She particularly noted that the primary goal of Alia Cares is to reduce the disparity between the wealthy and the impoverished, with a strong emphasis on supporting the most vulnerable members of society.

“To achieve this goal, Alia Cares implements a social register through the State Operations Coordinating Unit (SOCU) to effectively identify and select beneficiaries,” she explained.

Mrs. Tor-Wombo emphasised that the program targets individuals unable to meet basic needs like housing, healthcare, food, and clothing, operating in three phases with a focus on livelihood support in three key result areas.

The grants, distributed in three phases, benefit micro and small businesses across all the 23 Local Government Areas of the state to stimulate economic growth.

Mrs. Tor-Wombo clarified that the program’s selection process prioritizes those facing challenges in accessing essential services.

Despite allegations of political interference, she assured that the initiative remains committed to promoting inclusive growth and social development in Benue State.

She explained that the programme’s transparent approach and strategic partnerships signal a continued positive impact on the state’s economy and society.