Group Seeks Social Protection Policy For Vulnerable Nigerians

ActionAid Nigerian has appealed to the federal and state governments to evolve social protection policies to eradicate poverty in the country.

The deputy country director of ActionAid Nigeria, Suwaiba Mohammad Dankabo made the appeal at the commemoration of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

The event was held with residents of Gofidna Community in Jiwa, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), in the nation’s capital yesterday.

While addressing the newsmen, Dankabo said, “As we commemorate the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, with the theme: “Decent Work and Social Protection: Putting Dignity in Practice for All”, the theme strikes at the very heart of our mission to transform the lives of millions trapped in the cycle of poverty, and it resonates profoundly with the realities we face in Nigeria.”

She said in Nigeria, the struggle against poverty is not one-dimensional. It encompasses a web of interconnected challenges that touch upon livelihoods, access to basic needs, and the absence of social protection for the most vulnerable among us. The stark reality is that, in Nigeria, millions of our fellow citizens grapple with multidimensional poverty every day.

“We must understand that poverty, in all its dimensions, robs individuals of their inherent dignity and potential. It deprives them of the opportunity to access quality education, healthcare, and meaningful employment. It limits their ability to shape their own destinies and contribute fully to our society.

“At ActionAid Nigeria, we are totally committed to the cause of eradicating poverty in all its forms. Over the years, we have worked tirelessly to empower communities, amplify their voices, and advocate for policies that foster inclusivity and equity. However, our collective effort is needed now more than ever. It should no longer be business as usual. All stakeholders, CSOs, corporate organisations, federal, state, and local governments, ministries, departments and agencies must take a stand against poverty because it is a shared responsibility of every citizen.”

Also, the Sarki Dakachin Dofidna community in Jiwa Ward FCT Abubakar Rabiu Tukura, appreciated the ActionAid for its support for communities and called on the stakeholders to come to their aid and address this menace of poverty.