In a significant move towards alleviating poverty, the Federal Government distributed one-time grants of N20,000 each to over 5,000 vulnerable individuals, including those with disabilities, in Cross River State.
The initiative, orchestrated by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, unfolded at the Millennium Park in Calabar on Monday.
Speaking at the event, Minister Beta Edu, representing the Federal Government, emphasized that this initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to uplifting vulnerable Nigerians nationwide.
“We are flagging off the grant for vulnerable groups in Cross River. So far, we’ve been able to reach 5,000 very poor and vulnerable persons at the grassroots in this state with plans to expand in the coming year,” stated Edu.
Encouraging responsible use of the grants, she urged beneficiaries to invest in small businesses, emphasizing that the money is intended for ventures that contribute to sustained family income.
Edu also assured that the Federal Government’s social intervention programmes would continue benefiting qualified individuals in Cross River.
Quest Times further reports that Governor Bassey Otu, acknowledging Tinubu’s dedication to the welfare of citizens, presented symbolic cheques to the beneficiaries.
He expressed gratitude on behalf of Cross River State, praising Tinubu for championing the cause of the poor, while urging recipients to utilize the grants wisely, aligning with the state’s people-first governance approach.