The National Cash Transfer Office (NCTO) has conducted a Stakeholders’ Sensitization Meeting to address misconceptions surrounding the Cash Transfer Programme under the National Social Safety Nets Programme (NSSNP).
The meeting was aimed at deepening understanding and strengthening partnerships around the initiative.
Speaking during the one-day workshop in Uyo, the National Programme Manager of NCTO, Alhaji Abdulahi Iman, stated that the stakeholders’ engagement became necessary to let the people know what NCTO has achieved.
Iman, represented by the Cross River State Programme Manager, Mr Francis Aribiah noted that the initiative has provided financial support to poor and vulnerable households to boost their consumption and overall well-being.
According to him, the programme has made significant progress, with over 150,000 beneficiaries in Akwa Ibom State alone receiving cash support of 75,000 naira each through direct payments to their bank accounts or through debit cards by Financial Service Providers.
He said, “We are here to clear the misconception surrounding the cash transfer initiative. People tend to doubt every government programme, especially those involving financial assistance to the poor and vulnerable.
“There is a belief that the funds are not reaching the intended beneficiaries. To address this, we’re explaining the programme’s structure to key stakeholders, who will then enlighten their communities.
In his opening remarks, Dr Godwin Akpan, the State Focal Person of National Investment Programme Agency further clarified that the cash transfer programme is a real initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable citizens.
He urged persons who may be in doubt to verify the Agency’s claims by contacting the Cash Transfer Desk Offices at their respective local government Councils.
Akpan, however, warned against faceless groups collecting money from individuals to enlist them in the Programme. He observed that the beneficiaries of all Social Investment programmes are targeted and enrolled free of charge, and no money is collected from them.
“Let me be clear here that in National Investment Programme, we do not collect money to enlist beneficiaries and we have reported it to the security agencies and we have issued a disclaimer to that effect.
“We urge the public to be cautious of scams and to report any suspicious activities as we are committed to transparency and accountability in our programmes,” he added.
On her part, the State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga called for collective efforts in empowering households, emphasizing the need for the government to implement supportive policies.
The Commissioner represented by her Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Eno Akpan expressed gratitude to the President for the Conditional Cash Transfer initiative, which has positively impacted many communities and households.
On his part, the State Programme Manager, Mr. Innocent Okure noted that the Conditional Cash Transfer Programme is the most transparent initiative of the Federal Government in recent time.
He stated that list of the beneficiaries in all the LGAs can be verified in the Council Offices.
Mr. Okure attributed the success of the programme in the State to the strong support of the State Government, Local Government Authorities, the Security Agencies, and other critical stakeholders.
Goodwill messages were also presented at the well-attended event by Honorable Commissioners, Local Government Chairmen, Traditional Institutions, Faith based organizations, NOA, NIMC, and security agencies.
