By Chimezie Godfrey
The Federal Government has flagged off the Presidential Food and Nutrition Assistance programme in Niger State, reinforcing its commitment to the One Humanitarian–One Poverty Response System (OHOPRS) aimed at integrating immediate relief with long-term poverty reduction strategies.
The event, held at the Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre, was organised by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard M. Doro, described the intervention as a people-centred initiative designed to address food insecurity, prevent malnutrition among children under five, support pregnant and lactating women, and provide relief to displaced and vulnerable households.
He explained that the programme aligns with the OHOPRS framework, integrating beneficiaries captured in the expanded National Social Register into sustainable poverty-reduction schemes, including livelihood support, skills development and financial inclusion.
Dr. Doro noted that despite Niger State’s strategic importance in food production and hydroelectric power generation, recurring flooding, insecurity, displacement and climate-related shocks have heightened vulnerabilities in the state.
He assured that the Federal Government is prioritising proactive and anticipatory measures to strengthen protection mechanisms for affected communities.
In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olubunmi Olusanya, reaffirmed the commitment to transparency, accountability and effective service delivery, stressing the need for efficient targeting and collaboration with the Niger State Government and development partners.
The Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, appreciated Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Ministry for sustained support. He highlighted the humanitarian challenges posed by dam overflows and insecurity, calling for strengthened collaboration to enhance stability and ensure displaced children have access to education.
The event featured a symbolic flag-off and inspection tour by the Minister and the Governor, with beneficiaries expressing gratitude for what they described as timely intervention.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to data-driven and accountable humanitarian service delivery, ensuring that vulnerable Nigerians receive immediate support while being linked to sustainable pathways out of poverty.