The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, has disclosed that the NPower payment list contains numerous irregularities, including the inclusion of ineligible individuals, News About Nigeria reports.
During an exclusive interview with Arise TV, Edu shed light on recent developments within her ministry, emphasizing the need to address issues plaguing the NPower program.
Edu revealed that upon assuming her role, the ministry uncovered several troubling issues with the NPower initiative. Among the concerns was the enrollment of individuals beyond the allocated budget, a significant financial burden.
Also, funds designated for NPower payments were not disbursed promptly, causing distress for beneficiaries.
More alarmingly, Edu pointed out that there were individuals on the payment list who should not have been included and others who offered no services but received payments.
To rectify these discrepancies, the ministry promptly established a committee, led by the ministry’s secretary, to investigate these issues.
Edu noted that they have already received the committee’s initial report, signaling the government’s commitment to address these concerns.
Amid these challenges, Edu reaffirmed the government’s dedication to alleviating poverty in Nigeria. She outlined ambitious plans to lift 133 million Nigerians out of poverty by 2030, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Also, she explained that the government is actively exploring innovative approaches to achieving this goal, signaling a departure from past strategies.
Edu concluded by expressing her optimism that, within the next year, they would successfully elevate at least 20 million Nigerians out of poverty, signaling a bold and determined commitment to transform the nation’s socioeconomic landscape.
