The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the International Labour Organisation (ILO), have launched the “Supporting Sustainable Social Protection Systems in Nigeria” (SUSI) project, funded by the European Union,EU.
The project launched in Abuja, Nigeria seeks to bolster Nigeria’s social protection structures, ensuring more comprehensive coverage and aid for vulnerable groups across the country.
The SUSI project will focus on reinforcing policy frameworks, integrating financial mechanisms into national budgets, and enhancing the shock-responsiveness of social protection systems at both federal and state levels.
The project will initially be implemented in Abia, Benue, Oyo, and Sokoto States.
At the launch €13 million event, the UNICEF representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate emphasised the critical role of robust social protection systems in safeguarding the rights and well-being of children and their families.
“Social protection is a vital mechanism for reducing poverty and promoting inclusive development.
“With the EU’s support and in collaboration with the ILO, we are committed to working with the Nigerian government to build a more resilient and effective social protection system,” Munduate said.
She said social protection has fundamental position in Nigeria’s development agenda, especially in the areas of growth and poverty alleviation.
‘‘Social protection is essential for our development agenda, providing significant social and economic benefits. It aids recovery from financial crises, promotes growth, and alleviates poverty,’’ Munduate noted.
She commended the Nigerian government for its efforts in establishing a social protection system, including initiatives like health insurance and Conditional Cash Transfers. These are crucial in lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty, including over 45 million children.
She however, highlighted that gaps in coverage persist, particularly for vulnerable populations, who currently experience only 14.8% coverage.
In his remarks, the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting social inclusion initiatives.
“The EU remains dedicated to investing in Nigeria’s social protection system as a means to reduce inequality and ensure that no one is left behind. This project aligns with our broader efforts to promote sustainable development and economic empowerment,” he stated.
Highlighting the importance of policy and legal frameworks in sustaining social protection efforts, the ILO Country Director, Dr. Vanessa Phala said; “This project will not only expand coverage for vulnerable populations but also strengthen the legal and institutional frameworks necessary for a sustainable social protection system in Nigeria.”
The SUSI project aims to deliver key outcomes, including an improved National Social Register, enhanced capacity-building for policymakers, strengthened legal frameworks, and a more efficient Social Protection Management Information System.
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Nentawe Yilwatda commended the initiative, saying “the programme is timely and aligns with the ministry’s goals of promoting social inclusion, reducing poverty, and improving the overall well-being of our citizens. He emphasised the importance of collaboration,”
“I am particularly excited about the prospect of collaborating with the European Union to strengthen our social protection systems, promote evidence-based policymaking, and support innovative solutions to address social challenges,” he said
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu said the partnership represents a significant milestone in our efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s social protection system.
“By working together, we can create sustainable mechanisms that uplift vulnerable Nigerians and promote long-term economic stability,” he said
The launch event had in attendance, top federal and state government officials, civil society organisations, and development partners, marking a new phase in Nigeria’s social protection landscape and reinforcing the country’s commitment to the well-being of its citizen.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
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