August 22, 2025 – The Sokoto State Government has announced plans to expand social protection coverage to reach more vulnerable households, in collaboration with development partners such as the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund, the European Union, and the International Labour Organisation.
The disclosure was made during a stakeholders’ engagement meeting on the review of the National Social Protection Policy and the National Social Register, held on Friday at Dankani Hotel in Sokoto.
The meeting brought together policymakers, experts, and partners to discuss strategies for supporting poor and vulnerable households across the state.
Speaking at the event on behalf of the State Operation and Coordinating Unit, the State Coordinator praised stakeholders for their active role in the discussions. “We appreciate the time you have taken to share your perspectives and expertise, which will help in refining our approaches to better support vulnerable households,” the coordinator said.
He further expressed appreciation to development partners for their dedication to strengthening the National Social Register. According to him, an additional one million households will be enrolled across four pilot states, including Sokoto, Benue, Abia, and Oyo.
He explained that this expansion will improve government capacity to identify and target poor households through effective social protection programs and interventions.
The State Coordinator highlighted the role of international development support in boosting Sokoto’s capacity to deliver sustainable welfare programs. “We value this collaboration and look forward to continued partnership in advancing social protection goals,” he added.
The meeting emphasized the importance of social welfare, poverty reduction, and inclusive growth, with stakeholders noting that expanding the register will provide more households access to critical support.
Officials stressed that long-term investment in social protection is vital for reducing poverty, improving household income, and promoting sustainable development across Nigeria.