The National Coordinator of the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus programme has said the additional $500 million financing from the World Bank will further strengthen efforts to build economic resilience among poor and vulnerable households, smallholder farmers and small businesses affected by economic shocks.
The World Bank recently confirmed the effectiveness of the additional financing for NG-CARES in an official communication dated December 9, 2025, indicating that all required conditions had been met. The development clears the way for expanded implementation of the programme across states and the Federal Capital Territory.
According to the programme’s national coordinator, the approval represents a significant milestone under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in expanding social protection and economic support for vulnerable Nigerians. He noted that the additional funding will enable states and the FCT to fully commence implementation by financing delivery platforms and coordination units, with expenditures to be reimbursed after verification by an independent agent.
He explained that the financing will help deepen interventions targeted at households, farmers, and micro and small businesses whose livelihoods have been disrupted by inflationary pressures, climate-related challenges and broader economic shocks. By strengthening delivery systems at subnational levels, the programme is expected to improve the reach, speed and effectiveness of support to those most in need.
The national coordinator expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the progress recorded under the NG-CARES programme, describing the achievements so far as a reflection of strong political commitment to inclusive recovery and resilience-building. He also acknowledged the leadership of the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, noting that strategic guidance from the ministry has played a key role in delivering measurable results.
NG-CARES continues to rank among the flagship programmes in the World Bank’s Nigeria portfolio and has earned a highly satisfactory performance rating. With the additional financing now effective, stakeholders say the programme is well positioned to scale up impact, particularly for smallholder farmers and MSMEs that remain critical to job creation, food security and local economic stability.
