In a bid to reduce the impact of a harsh economy plagued by high inflation, a ₦20,000 conditional cash transfer programme has begun in Nigeria.
What is surprising, however, is the noise being made about the programme, as though the amount given can take the beneficiaries out of poverty.
You see, Nigerians are not that gullible.
Many a times, the people have heard governments say they will benefit from some schemes or programmes, only for those programmes to kick-off and only party members are the ones benefitting.
The same thing is about to be witnessed again under President Bola Tinubu’s conditional cash transfer.
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On Tuesday, the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, said one million households received the ₦20,000 payment.
She revealed this in Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State, after flagging off the programme in the state.
Lifting 50 Million People Out Of Poverty
According to her, the Federal Government’s grant is targeted towards lifting at least 50 million people out of poverty within the next 42 months.
Edu said the government wants to tackle the food scarcity with “end hunger programme,” in order to renew the hope of the vulnerable in society.
“For the first batch, we have 10,000 beneficiaries, while the second batch will commence immediately.
“For petty traders, 1,000 families have been given the needed support through various channels, while others will get their intervention through their youth leaders, women groups, and more,” she said.
Also, the Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Minister said: “We are hoping that the support we have been able to give them today will help them grow their petty businesses and support their families, especially their children, to go to school”.
However, many Nigerians are skeptical about the programme.
Critics Skepticism
It appears the funds would only go to members or the All Progressives Congress (APC). If you are not, “then nothing for you”.
Also worthy of note is the fact that the grant is not for every vulnerable person.
You may ask why.
Well, it is obvious. What are the yardsticks for picking the vulnerable people in the society who are to benefit from the grant?
How were they chosen?
Critics say this money will go into some people’s pockets, and those for whom it is earmarked will not get it.
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However, should the federal government be celebrating the ₦20,000 conditional cash transfer given to Nigerians when, in actuality, the government brought the nation to this point.
