FGN to Relaunch Direct Cash Transfer to 12 Million Nigerians

Due to the escalating cost of living in Nigeria, the Federal Government is set to relaunch direct cash transfers, aiming to reach around 12 million vulnerable citizens. The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun, disclosed this initiative during a retreat organized by the ministry in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state.

Initial Project Expansion

Originally designed to assist 3 million Nigerians, the dire economic circumstances have prompted an expansion of the project to accommodate 12 million recipients. Minister Edun emphasized the pressing need to address the increasing hardship faced by citizens, making it imperative to extend the reach of the direct cash transfer program.

Presidential Panel and Recommendations

Edun revealed that the presidential panel on social investment programs is ready to present recommendations to President Bola Tinubu, advocating for the reinstatement of direct payments to the most vulnerable. The intention is to alleviate the economic strain on a broader scale.

Suspension of National Social Investment Programme

President Tinubu had suspended the management of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) and its programs in January, affecting the conditional cash transfer program and three others. However, the government is now gearing up to resume the cash transfer initiative.

Technological Facilitation for Transparent Payments

Edun assured that technology would play a crucial role in the transparent and efficient disbursement of funds. He emphasized the use of technology to eliminate manual processes and potential delays, ensuring a seamless experience for beneficiaries.

Addressing High Food Prices

Acknowledging the soaring cost of food, Minister Edun outlined the government’s steps to increase food availability and drive down costs. He highlighted President Tinubu’s intervention to release 60,000 metric tonnes of food grains as a strategic move to stabilize food prices in the market.

Historical Effectiveness of Cash Transfer Programs

Defending the cash transfer program, Edun referred to historical evidence showcasing the positive impact of direct payments on poverty reduction. He stressed that putting money directly into the hands of individuals empowers them to address their immediate needs, thereby contributing to poverty alleviation.

Commitment to Economic Growth and Job Creation

Minister Edun emphasized President Tinubu’s commitment to growing the economy, creating jobs, and lifting millions out of poverty. The direct cash transfer initiative aligns with broader economic policies geared towards addressing the soaring challenges faced by Nigerians.

Requirements for the Direct Cash Transfer

The renewed cash Federal Government direct cash transfer is not different from the previous conditional cash transfer program (CCT).

Registration Process

To be eligible for the Direct Cash Transfer program and receive a monthly grant of 25,000 Naira for a minimum of three months, individuals must undergo a registration process. The registration is free, and the following information is required:

1. Full Name
2. Phone Number
3. BVN (Optional)
4. Account Number
5. Account Name
6. Bank Name
7. Gender
8. Date of Birth
9. Marital Status
10. State
11. LGA
12. Names of Your 2 Children or Your Brothers

Note:

Providing an account number is optional for registration, as a wallet bank account will be opened for beneficiaries.

Application Procedure

Applying for the direct cash transfer program involves the following steps:

1. Locate Enumerators: The program is not available online. Interested individuals should find enumerators in their area, appointed by the Federal Government, who will facilitate the registration process.
2. Enumerators’ Role: Enumerators, appointed by the government, process applications for the program. Each area/ward has at least one enumerator responsible for registering people for the program.
3. Use of APK App: The application is not through an online portal but an APK app that contains a URL, USERNAME, AND PASSWORD shared by NASSCO with the agent facilitating the registration.
4. Avoid Fake Portals and Forms: Members of the public are cautioned against using fake registration portals and forms circulating online. These fraudulent platforms claim to be for potential beneficiaries of the Federal Government’s cash transfer program.
5. Disregard WhatsApp Groups and Unsolicited Messages: Individuals are advised not to join WhatsApp groups or share personal information through text messages with individuals claiming to work for NASSCO or the NCTO.

Payment Timeline

The payment will take effect as soon as the Federal Government is through with ongoing investigations on the federal ministry of Humanitarian affairs.

Suspension of Programs in January 2024

The suspension of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) and its four programs which include the conditional cash transfer, in early January 2024 was announced by Segun Imohiosen, the Director of Information in the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. The primary reasons for the suspension are as follows:

1. Alleged Misappropriation: There is an ongoing investigation into alleged misappropriation within the agency’s management and its programs.
2. Operational Lapses: The suspension is a response to identified operational lapses within NSIPA.
3. Improprieties in Payments: Concerns have been raised about improprieties surrounding payments to beneficiaries of the programs.

Conclusion

As Nigeria battles with economic hardships, the relaunch of direct cash transfers emerges as a significant step in mitigating the impact on vulnerable citizens. President Tinubu’s overarching goal of fostering economic growth and lifting millions out of poverty remains at the forefront of these interventions.