The Federal Government has continued its rollout of financial support to low-income households, with Akwa Ibom State emerging as a major beneficiary under the Household Prosperity and Empowerment-Cash Transfer Programme (HOPE-CT).
So far, more than N18.7 billion has been paid out to vulnerable families in the state across three disbursement phases. This figure represents a portion of the N60 billion earmarked for the entire South-South region, positioning Akwa Ibom as the highest recipient within the zone.
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro, made this known during a stakeholder engagement held in Uyo over the weekend. The session brought together programme beneficiaries and key stakeholders to review progress and gather direct feedback.
Doro emphasized that the meeting was not merely ceremonial but a deliberate effort to hear directly from those impacted by the initiative.
He noted that understanding how the funds are being used is critical to ensuring the programme achieves its intended purpose—improving the living conditions of vulnerable households.
According to him, “The essence of this visit is to personally engage beneficiaries of the HOPE-CT programme and obtain firsthand feedback on interventions already delivered.
“The ministry is working towards a One Humanitarian One Poverty Response System where interventions are coordinated, transparent, and effective.”
He added that feedback from beneficiaries would play a central role in shaping future decisions, urging participants to speak openly about their experiences—both positive and negative.
Representing Governor Umo Eno at the event, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, expressed appreciation for the minister’s personal involvement. She described his presence as a reflection of genuine dedication to addressing the needs of underserved populations.
Ibanga further explained that the cash transfer initiative serves as a strategic tool to combat extreme poverty. By providing direct financial assistance, the programme not only supports basic household needs but also encourages small-scale entrepreneurship, helping to stimulate local economies.
During the interactive segment, several beneficiaries shared their experiences. While expressing gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the intervention, many called for the programme’s sustainability and an upward review of the N25,000 disbursement.
One of the beneficiaries, Abel Enang, highlighted the tangible impact of the funds. Having received a total of N75,000 over three tranches, he invested the money in vegetable farming.
According to him, the support has helped stabilize his household income, and an increase in the payment could enable beneficiaries to expand their ventures and improve their livelihoods further.
Overall, the engagement underscored both the progress made and the need for continued investment in social protection programmes, as beneficiaries look toward long-term support and expanded opportunities.
