The Ondo State government, in collaboration with the Federal Government, launched a significant social welfare initiative aimed at alleviating poverty and empowering vulnerable citizens. This program, known as the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT), is a component of the broader National Social Investment Programme and embodies the “Renewed Hope” agenda of the Tinubu administration. The initiative involves the distribution of debit cards to beneficiaries, facilitating direct cash transfers to support their livelihoods and enhance their economic well-being. This second phase of the program represents a substantial expansion of the social safety net in Ondo State, reaching a wider population and injecting a considerable amount of funding into the local economy.
The launch event, held at the Akure South Local Government Secretariat, was presided over by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who emphasized the state government’s commitment to social inclusion and economic empowerment. He underscored the strategic partnership with the Federal Government in realizing this objective and highlighted the program’s significance in addressing the economic challenges faced by many residents. The governor revealed that 16,255 beneficiaries across all 18 local government areas of the state would receive N75,000 each, disbursed in monthly installments of N25,000 over three months. This represents a substantial investment of N1,219,125,000 directly into the hands of vulnerable households.
This second phase of the CCT program builds upon the initial distribution of 8,637 debit cards in November 2024, which injected N647,775,000 into the state’s economy. The significant increase in both the number of beneficiaries and the total disbursement underscores the government’s commitment to expanding the reach of this vital social safety net. The program aims to provide direct economic support to families, enabling them to meet basic needs, invest in small businesses, and improve their overall quality of life. The initiative is a tangible manifestation of the government’s promise to provide Renewed Hope for all citizens.
Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development for their unwavering support and prioritization of the well-being of ordinary Nigerians. He commended the collaboration between the federal and state governments in implementing this crucial program and emphasized the importance of such partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals. The governor also encouraged the beneficiaries to utilize the funds judiciously, emphasizing the need for responsible spending and investment to maximize the program’s impact on their lives and communities.
The Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, graced the occasion and commended Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership and alignment with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope agenda. He affirmed the trust the people of Ondo State have placed in the governor, acknowledging his unwavering commitment to their welfare and development. The monarch’s presence at the event further underscored the significance of the CCT program and its potential to positively impact the lives of the beneficiaries.
The Conditional Cash Transfer program in Ondo State represents a significant stride towards achieving social inclusion and economic empowerment. By providing direct financial assistance to vulnerable households, the initiative aims to alleviate poverty, stimulate local economies, and improve the overall quality of life for beneficiaries. The program’s expansion reflects the government’s commitment to fulfilling the promise of Renewed Hope and ensuring that no citizen is left behind in the pursuit of progress and prosperity. The collaboration between the federal and state governments exemplifies the power of partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals and building a more inclusive and equitable society.
