Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reducing poverty through the N50,000 monthly Empowerment and Poverty Relief Programme, describing it as a strategic effort to strengthen the local economy.
The Governor stated this on Wednesday during the disbursement of start-up capital to new beneficiaries. He explained that the initiative is part of his administration’s campaign promises to improve livelihoods and promote self-reliance among residents of the state.
According to him, the government has declared 2026 as a year of intensive empowerment targeting men, women, and youths across the 44 local government areas. Governor Yusuf noted that the programme has been ongoing since he assumed office, with thousands of women already benefiting and experiencing visible improvements in their standard of living.
He shared the success story of a woman who received an initial N50,000 grant and expanded her business to over N1.2 million in two years, emphasizing that such achievements demonstrate the impact of the programme. “We are happy to see our citizens using these funds wisely to build their lives and contribute to the economy,” he said.
The Governor urged newly selected beneficiaries to invest the funds carefully, support their families, and contribute to the growth of their communities. He also appreciated the Kano State House of Assembly and the 44 local government chairmen for their support. “I commend the Speaker, Hon. Jibril Ismail Falgore, and all council chairmen for ensuring smooth implementation and timely release of funds,” he said.
In his remarks, Speaker Falgore highlighted that the level of infrastructural and poverty alleviation projects under the Yusuf administration is visible across the state. “Even critics have admitted that Governor Yusuf’s leadership has brought positive transformation to Kano State,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Vice Chairperson and Chairman of Danbatta Local Government Council, Alhaji Jamilu Abubakar Dambatta, representing ALGON Chairperson Hajiya Sa’adatu Yushau Soja, commended the Governor’s inclusive leadership and efforts to make citizens more productive and economically independent.
