By Blessing Otobong-Gabriel
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard M. Doro, has revealed that the Federal Government’s intervention programme has reached hundreds of thousands of vulnerable households nationwide, with a total disbursement of over N11.48 billion across three phases.
Speaking at HoPE-CT beneficiary and a stakeholder engagement in Kwara State, the Minister disclosed that 183,186 households benefited in the first tranche, while 139,812 and 141,852 households were supported in the second and third tranches respectively.
He clarified, however, that the figures should not be interpreted as entirely separate beneficiaries, noting that many households transitioned across phases due to the National Identity Number (NIN) validation process aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability.
Dr. Doro emphasised that the intervention is being repositioned under a unified framework anchored on a “One Humanitarian – One Poverty Response System,” designed to eliminate fragmented approaches and ensure that all support mechanisms are connected, trackable, and outcome-driven.
According to him, the initiative is closely tied to the Federal Government’s broader poverty exit strategy, which prioritizes structured pathways out of poverty rather than temporary relief. He noted that interventions such as livelihood support, skills training, and cooperative development are now being aligned to deliver measurable and sustainable outcomes.
“What we are building is not just a programme, but a graduation system, one that ensures beneficiaries move from support to stability, and ultimately exit poverty with dignity,” he said.
The Minister also reassured beneficiaries that the programme remains entirely free, urging them to report any individual or group demanding payment to access the intervention.
He commended stakeholders and residents of Kwara State for their continued cooperation, stressing that beneficiaries’ feedback will play a critical role in shaping future phases of the programme.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering measurable improvements in the lives of vulnerable Nigerians through the ongoing HoPE-CT Programme.
“It is with a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today as we continue our nationwide engagement under the HoPE-CT Programme. This engagement is about impact and ensuring that government support translates into real improvements in the lives of vulnerable households,” he stated.
Dr. Doro commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his strong leadership and commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s social protection system, noting that the President’s vision continues to guide efforts toward achieving measurable outcomes for vulnerable populations.
He also praised the Governor of Kwara State for aligning state-level initiatives with national priorities, adding that the progress recorded in the state reflects deliberate governance and a strong commitment to citizens’ welfare.
Dr. Doro noted that Kwara State has played a pivotal role in shaping the structure and strengthening the delivery of the HoPE-CT Programme, describing the state as a critical contributor to the evolution of the initiative.
He reiterated that the programme is being continuously refined to ensure that government interventions move beyond distribution to achieving tangible, lasting impact for beneficiaries.
Dr. Mariam NnaFatima Imam, Commissioner for Social Development in Kwara State, congratulated beneficiaries of the Household Prosperity and Empowerment Cash Transfer (HoPE-CT) Programme, describing the initiative as impactful and people-focused.
The Commissioner noted that the programme aligns strongly with the vision of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, adding that through the Ministry of Social Development, the state continues to implement interventions targeted at orphans and vulnerable children, persons with disabilities, and the elderly, while also strengthening juvenile centres.
She explained that, alongside the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) and in collaboration with HoPE-CT, these efforts are delivering measurable improvements across communities.
According to her, the integration of the State Cash Transfer Unit within KWASSIP has enhanced coordination and improved service delivery.
Dr. Imam further highlighted that HoPE-CT provides timely support through debit cards and direct transfers, enabling beneficiaries to meet basic needs and rebuild their livelihoods.
She disclosed that over 183,000 households benefited in the first phase of the programme, about 139,000 in the second phase, and more than 141,000 in the third phase, covering all 16 local government areas of the state.
“This support has helped families stay afloat, rebuild, and look ahead with more confidence,” she added.
The Commissioner commended the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction for his leadership in advancing social protection nationwide, noting that his efforts continue to bring relief and hope to vulnerable communities, including those in Kwara State.
Dr. Imam reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to delivering inclusive, people-centred interventions and ensuring that more vulnerable citizens benefit from government initiatives.