The Federal Government has disclosed that over 183,000 households in Kwara State have benefited from the Household Prosperity and Empowerment Cash Transfer (HoPE-CT) programme, as part of a broader national intervention targeting vulnerable populations.
Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard M. Doro, made the disclosure during a beneficiary and stakeholder engagement in the state, where he provided an update on the scale and structure of the programme.
According to the Minister, the intervention has so far recorded a total disbursement of over N11.48 billion across three phases nationwide. He noted that 183,186 households were captured in the first tranche, while 139,812 and 141,852 households benefited in the second and third tranches respectively.
Doro, however, clarified that the figures should not be interpreted as entirely separate beneficiaries. He explained that overlaps exist across phases due to the National Identity Number (NIN) validation process, which was introduced to enhance transparency, eliminate duplication, and improve accountability within the system.
He further stated that the programme is being repositioned under a unified framework described as “One Humanitarian – One Poverty Response System.” The framework, he said, is designed to address fragmentation in social intervention delivery by ensuring that all support mechanisms are connected, trackable, and outcome-driven.
“What we are building is not just a programme, but a graduation system, one that ensures beneficiaries move from support to stability, and ultimately exit poverty with dignity,” the Minister said.
Doro added that the HoPE-CT initiative is aligned with the Federal Government’s broader poverty exit strategy, which prioritises sustainable pathways out of poverty rather than short-term relief. He noted that interventions such as livelihood support, skills acquisition, and cooperative development are now being integrated into the programme to deliver measurable long-term outcomes.
He also reassured beneficiaries that the programme remains entirely free, urging them to report any individual or group requesting payment to access the intervention.
“It is with a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today as we continue our nationwide engagement under the HoPE-CT Programme. This engagement is about impact and ensuring that government support translates into real improvements in the lives of vulnerable households,” he stated.
The Minister commended Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s social protection system, noting that the administration’s vision continues to guide efforts towards delivering measurable outcomes for vulnerable citizens.
He also acknowledged the role of AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, stating that the alignment of state-level initiatives with national priorities has contributed to the progress recorded in Kwara. According to him, the state has played a critical role in shaping the structure and improving the delivery of the HoPE-CT programme.
Doro reiterated that the programme is being continuously refined to ensure that government interventions move beyond distribution to achieving tangible and lasting impact.
Also speaking at the event, Commissioner for Social Development in Kwara State, Mariam NnaFatima Imam, described the HoPE-CT programme as impactful and people-focused.
She said the initiative aligns with the vision of the state government, adding that through the Ministry of Social Development, targeted interventions are being implemented for orphans and vulnerable children, persons with disabilities, and the elderly. She noted that efforts are also ongoing to strengthen juvenile centres across the state.
Imam explained that, alongside the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) and in collaboration with HoPE-CT, these interventions are delivering measurable improvements across communities. She added that the integration of the State Cash Transfer Unit within KWASSIP has enhanced coordination and improved service delivery.
She further highlighted that the HoPE-CT programme provides timely support through debit cards and direct transfers, enabling beneficiaries to meet basic needs and rebuild their livelihoods.
Providing additional breakdown, the Commissioner confirmed that over 183,000 households benefited in the first phase of the programme, about 139,000 in the second phase, and more than 141,000 in the third phase, covering all 16 local government areas of the state.
“This support has helped families stay afloat, rebuild, and look ahead with more confidence,” she said.
Imam commended the Minister for his leadership in advancing social protection nationwide, noting that ongoing efforts under the programme continue to bring relief and renewed hope to vulnerable communities.
She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to delivering inclusive, people-centred interventions and ensuring that more vulnerable citizens benefit from government initiatives as the programme evolves.
