Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, has emphasised the importance of collective efforts for the success of the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) program. Speaking through his deputy, Comrade Yakubu Garba, Governor Bago delivered his remarks at the inaugural NG-CARES States Peer Learning and Experience Sharing Summit, held on Monday at the Justice Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre, Minna.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Bago noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has tested the resilience and adaptability of societies worldwide, revealing both strengths and vulnerabilities. He highlighted the need for leaders and stakeholders to draw lessons from the crisis, share knowledge, and develop strategies that will strengthen the nation's resilience and lay the groundwork for sustained economic recovery.
"Niger State has experienced the wide-reaching effects of the pandemic on health, livelihoods, and the local economy. However, we have also seen the power of community collaboration and solidarity," the governor stated. He added that the summit serves as a platform for exchanging ideas, exploring innovative solutions, and reinforcing the spirit of cooperation that is crucial for facing future challenges.
Governor Bago emphasised the state's commitment to the NG-CARES program, aligning it with the goals of the New Niger Agenda. He revealed that Niger State had reinvested earnings from the last Independent Verification Agents (IVA) assessment into social security efforts for the current cycle.
"We must leverage our collective expertise to develop frameworks that promote resilience and sustainability as we strive to transform the lives of our people," he asserted. He encouraged participants to reflect on the program’s achievements and identify areas for further improvement, with the goal of fostering an environment where every citizen can thrive.
Expressing optimism about the summit's outcome, Governor Bago said the insights shared would inspire strategies to revitalise the economy and enhance citizens' welfare. "The responsibility to shape our future is in our hands, and I believe in our collective ability," he concluded.
Dr. Abdulkarim Obaje, the National Coordinator of NG-CARES, highlighted that the program is supported by the World Bank, with a budget of $750 million allocated for 2021–2024. So far, $645 million has been expended across three key components: social safety nets, livelihood grants, and basic services support, benefiting approximately nine million Nigerians. Dr. Obaje also revealed plans for a $500 million scale-up to expand the program’s reach.
Mrs. Elizabeth Egharevba, Chairperson of the Federal CARES Technical Committee, praised the program’s impact on vulnerable populations. She stressed that stakeholder collaboration would help address challenges and achieve the desired outcomes.
The summit featured symbolic cheque presentations to beneficiaries of the livelihood support initiative under Result Area One. Participants from eight states, Niger, Benue, Gombe, Kaduna, Kogi, Plateau, Rivers, and the FCT Abuja, attended the two-day event.