The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction has made a bold appeal to the National Assembly, requesting a substantial N260 billion in the 2025 budget to fuel ambitious job creation initiatives. This ambitious target aims to generate two million jobs, a lifeline for millions of Nigerians grappling with unemployment and poverty.
The Minister, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, presented this ambitious plan to the National Assembly Joint Committee on Poverty Reduction and Social Investment during the ministry’s 2025 budget defense. He outlined a multi-pronged approach, emphasizing the critical need for adequate funding to support key programs.
“The National Assembly should recognize the urgency of this endeavor,” Minister Yilwatda stated. “Our strategy involves a multifaceted approach, including the provision of starter packs to empower over 110,000 individuals to embark on self-employment ventures. However, the success of these initiatives hinges on critical funding. We require N55 billion for comprehensive training programs, covering resource personnel costs and logistics for effective starter pack distribution.”
Furthermore, the ministry seeks to empower 50,000 unemployed individuals through the Skill2Wealth Initiative. This program, designed to foster micro and small-scale enterprises, necessitates a substantial N50 billion allocation to cover training, starter packs, market linkages, and rigorous monitoring and evaluation.
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The humanitarian crisis gripping the nation also demands urgent attention. The ministry has requested a dedicated N10 billion Humanitarian Response Fund to address the devastating impacts of climate change-related disasters, conflicts, and man-made crises, including widespread flooding, devastating fires, and the ongoing insurgency.
“The scale of the humanitarian challenges is immense,” Minister Yilwatda acknowledged. “Dwindling global support, with donor nations increasingly focusing on crises in the Middle East, Sudan, and Ukraine, underscores the critical need for increased domestic funding.”
While the ministry seeks a significant budget increase, concerns remain. The House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence expressed concerns about the adequacy of the overall N595,024,943,368 billion allocated to the sub-sector in the 2025 appropriation bill.
Despite these concerns, the ministry remains committed to its mission. Minister Yilwatda assured the committee of intensified efforts to secure the release of the N3.7 billion approved in the 2024 Appropriation Act for grants to 5,000 vulnerable groups.
The 2025 budget proposal reflects the ministry’s commitment to addressing the escalating challenges of poverty and humanitarian crises. However, the success of these critical initiatives hinges on the National Assembly’s support and the timely release of necessary funds.
