Powerful Partnership: UN and FG to Tackle Nigeria’s Poverty, Create 2M Jobs

UN and FG to Tackle Nigeria’s Poverty, Create 2M Jobs

The Federal Government of Nigeria has joined forces with the United Nations in a strategic move to lift millions of Nigerians out of poverty. This collaboration aims to address issues like youth unemployment, support for conflict victims, and the devastating effects of climate change.

Speaking in Abuja, Prof. Nantawe Yilwatda, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, highlighted the importance of the partnership. After a meeting with Amina Mohammed, the Deputy UN Secretary-General, Yilwatda said the UN had been instrumental in supporting various government social intervention programs.

“The UN has been a long-standing ally, helping us achieve several social intervention goals,” Yilwatda said.

The partnership aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to drive economic reforms with a human face, reduce poverty, and create safer communities.

“We are committed to supporting people affected by insurgency, climate change, and economic reforms. This collaboration will provide durable solutions to these challenges,” Yilwatda explained.

Yilwatda revealed that the ministry would unveil its 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan on December 23. This document will guide efforts to comprehensively address Nigeria’s humanitarian challenges.

“We’ll work with the UN globally to raise funds using this plan. By the first quarter of 2025, our Durable Solution Plan will take effect. These initiatives reflect our commitment to lifting as many people as possible out of poverty,” he added.

The government has also allocated significant resources for social safety nets in the proposed 2025 budget.

“If you review the budget, you’ll see verifiable plans to reduce poverty and provide safety nets for the poorest Nigerians,” Yilwatda noted.

The minister announced a bold target: creating two million jobs by the end of 2025.

“This is achievable with the right partnerships and government policies in place,” he said.

Deputy UN Secretary-General Amina Mohammed assured the Nigerian government of the UN’s full support. She emphasized the ministry’s critical role in addressing poverty and humanitarian crises.

“People face hardships from climate, conflict, and internal displacement. This ministry is pivotal in preventing crises and finding lasting solutions,” Mohammed stated.

She also stressed the importance of accommodating host communities to prevent social tensions.

“With high poverty indices, it’s essential to invest more in social interventions to address growing humanitarian needs,” she said.

Mohammed called for massive investments to build resilience and create opportunities for communities.

“Huge investments are needed to transition into a more resilient society,” she added.

The collaboration between the Federal Government and the UN is expected to make significant strides in addressing Nigeria’s multidimensional poverty.

The focus will include economic stability, job creation, and humanitarian support. With both parties working in synergy, the outlook for millions of Nigerians could shift toward hope and opportunity.

By addressing immediate needs while planning for long-term solutions, this partnership could set a new benchmark for poverty reduction efforts in the country.