The Federal Government has issued a stern warning against individuals selling slots for its empowerment scheme, vowing to prosecute those involved. The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Mr. Bernard Doro, emphasised that the programme is entirely free and that no Nigerian should pay to register or benefit.
“We are working closely with security agencies to investigate and prosecute such cases,” Mr. Doro said, noting the establishment of a multi-level grievance redress system and a toll-free helpline (969 on MTN) for beneficiaries to report concerns.
The programme has disbursed ₦75,000 to eligible households over three months, benefiting 9,178,837 individuals, with plans to expand coverage to 15 million beneficiaries.
“These are not just numbers; they represent millions of Nigerian households whose dignity is being restored and hope renewed,” Mr. Doro added.
The scheme is funded by an $800 million loan from the World Bank, with the Federal Government pledging accountability and transparency in its implementation.
“Every beneficiary is captured in the National Social Register, verified using NIN or BVN, and authenticated through digital systems,” he said.
The National Programme Manager of NCTO, Mr. Abdullahi Alhassan Imam, commended development partners and implementing agencies for their support, emphasising the programme’s focus on empowering vulnerable households.
