The Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, has unveiled the NG-CARE intervention programme in Mopamuro Local Government Area, saying Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is committed to reducing poverty and improving livelihoods at the grassroots.
Fanwo made this known at a stakeholders’ meeting in Mopamuro attended by community leaders, NG-CARE coordinators and other stakeholders.
He said the initiative was aimed at assisting poor and vulnerable households, improving rural infrastructure and creating avenues for sustainable livelihoods.
According to him, the scheme would provide cash transfers, public works opportunities, livelihood support grants and agricultural inputs to beneficiaries, while communities would determine priority infrastructure projects for implementation.
“NG-CARE is about taking development directly to the people. It is about supporting vulnerable households, creating opportunities and giving communities a voice in determining the infrastructure they need.
“The ultimate objective is to create a pathway out of poverty and empower our people to become economically stronger,” he said.
Fanwo described the intervention as part of the Ododo administration’s efforts to provide relief to vulnerable households across the state.
He, however, cautioned against politicising the programme, stressing that qualified persons should benefit regardless of their political affiliation.
“Even though over 95 per cent of the people of Mopamuro are members or supporters of the APC, this scheme must not be politicised.
“Poverty does not know party. Hunger does not know party. Anybody who qualifies for this intervention should have access to it, irrespective of political affiliation.
“This is about the people, and Governor Ododo is committed to ensuring that government reaches those who need support most,” he said.
Fanwo urged beneficiaries to utilise the assistance responsibly and turn the opportunities into sustainable sources of income.
He also tasked community leaders and coordinators with ensuring transparency and fairness in the execution of the programme.
Those at the meeting included the Executive Chairman of Mopamuro Local Government Area, Hon. Ademola Bello; Member Representing Mopamuro State Constituency in the Kogi State House of Assembly, Hon. Olawumi Jacob; Special Adviser to the Governor on Culture and Integration, Hon. Moses Sunday David; community leaders and NG-CARE coordinators.
