Palliatives: Group Commends FG, Seeks Recognition Of NDE In Implementation

The Coalition of Civil Society Networks, a collective of organisationsdedicated to advocating for the rights and welfare of citizens, has commended the recent plan by the federal government to provide essential support and palliatives to vulnerable households, aimed at mitigating the effects of fuel subsidy removal across the nation.

The group in a statement signed by its coordinator, Zakari Hashimcommended the federal government for its proactive approach to address the challenges posed by subsidy removal, and called for the recognition of National Directorate Of Employment (NDE) for the implementation of the programme.

“Based on a critical assessment, the NDE has demonstrated tireless commitment over time with offices across the 36 states of the federation including FCT Abuja and exceptional dedication in its previous efforts. Its well-established structures have consistently proven their ability to provide effective assistance to vulnerable households in both rural and urban areas.

“The remarkable strides made by the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) in uplifting vulnerable households from the shackles of poverty through skill acquisition and digital training programs.

“The recent trajectory of progress witnessed in Nigeria, particularly in the fight against unemployment and poverty, owes a great deal to the commendable efforts of the NDE. By empowering individuals with essential skills and fostering a culture of self-reliance, the NDE has contributed significantly to elevating vulnerable households above the poverty line.

“The experience and track record of the National Directorate of Employment make it a natural choice to spearhead the implementation of this support program. By leveraging its existing infrastructure and expertise, the NDE can ensure the efficient and equitable distribution of palliatives, reaching those who need it most while minimizing administrative inefficiencies,” he said.

Hashim noted that the recent decline in the unemployment rate is a testament to the impactful role played by the NDE in engaging and empowering young people, adding that their participation in skills development and entrepreneurial initiatives has not only reduced unemployment but has also ignited a spirit of innovation and self-reliance among the youth.

“We believe that by entrusting the National Directorate of Employment with this responsibility, the federal government can maximize the impact of its support plans, guaranteeing that the benefits of these initiatives are felt by all segments of society. This collaboration will not only alleviate the immediate challenges posed by subsidy removal but also contribute to the long-term well-being of our nation’s most vulnerable households,” he added.