The National Economic Council (NEC), in partnership with the Federal Government, has approved the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme,a nationwide economic intervention targeting over 8.8 million economically active Nigerians, including artisans, small business owners, and local producers.
The programme, coordinated by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, aims to identify and support at least 1,000 individuals in each of Nigeria’s 8,809 political wards. Beneficiaries will receive targeted assistance to expand their businesses, enhance productivity, and improve their overall livelihoods.
The decision was announced after the latest NEC meeting held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, and chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Speaking on the programme, Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, explained that the initiative is a deliberate move to ensure that recent macroeconomic gains translate into real, grassroots-level development.
“This is a direct response from President Tinubu to ensure that increased revenues at both federal and state levels deliver visible impact across communities,” Uzodinma said.
Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, emphasized that the programme marks a strategic shift in the government’s reform efforts—from macroeconomic stabilization to grassroots economic inclusion. He noted that NEC’s endorsement ensures nationwide coordination and shared commitment among the federal and state governments.
“The Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme represents a critical next step in our national recovery agenda. It’s about taking development directly to the people—creating jobs, reducing poverty, and supporting small-scale enterprise growth across the country,” Bagudu stated.
He added that a technical committee will be formed to oversee the programme’s rollout and ensure alignment with state-level structures. NEC will also work closely with the committee to monitor outcomes and ensure transparency in the selection and support of beneficiaries.
By partnering with the Federal Government on this initiative, NEC is playing a key role in driving inclusive growth, rural economic development, and poverty reduction, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
