The Federal Government of Nigeria, in partnership with the World Bank, the National Cash Transfer Office (NCTO), and the National Social Investment Programmes Agency (NSIPA), has begun a three-day National Orientation Training for the Social Safety-Nets Project Scale-Up (NASSSP-SU).
The training aims to create a shared understanding of the NASSSP-SU Project implementation, ensure seamless state-level cash transfer operations, and guarantee accountability and transparency throughout the program.
Dr. Michael Ajuluchuku, the National Program Manager of NCTO, welcomed attendees and provided an overview of the President’s six-week suspension of social programs in January 2024. He urged continued support for the program to mitigate the impact of fuel subsidy removal.
The event was officially opened by Alhaji Musa Tafida, Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, representing the Permanent Secretary. Dr. Akindele Egbuwalo, Acting National Coordinator/CEO of NSIPA, expressed gratitude to the World Bank and NCTO for organizing the training. He also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to continue supporting social initiatives, emphasizing the urgent need for such programs.
The objectives of the NASSSP-SU training include:
- Developing a common understanding of NASSSP-SU Project implementations.
- Ensuring smooth operations of cash transfers.
- Maintaining accountability and transparency during program implementation.
The training is expected to enhance the capabilities of staff from NCTO, NSIPA, and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, ensuring effective delivery of social safety-net programs across Nigeria.
