The European Union (EU) has urged the Nigerian government to prioritize investments in social protection programs to tackle widespread poverty. Highlighting the critical role such initiatives play in human capital development, the EU emphasized its commitment to supporting Nigeria in strengthening its social safety net.
Massimo De Luca, Head of Cooperation for the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, delivered this message at the conclusion of the 3rd Social Protection Cross-Learning Summit (SPECS) held in Abuja. The summit, organized by the Federal Ministry of Finance alongside the Social Protection Development Partner Group (DPG), focused on the theme "Social Protection Towards Human Capital Development."
De Luca underscored the importance of social protection in fostering a robust national foundation. "It serves as a critical support system for vulnerable and poor households," he explained, "offering a safety net and a beacon of hope." He further emphasized how social protection programs contribute to economic stability, poverty reduction, and inclusive growth by ensuring access to essential services like education, healthcare, and proper nutrition.
Citing a recent World Bank report that estimated Nigeria's poverty rate at a staggering 46%, with over 104 million people living in poverty, De Luca stressed, "Investing in social protection is akin to investing in our collective future and building resilience." Such investments, he argued, would empower every citizen to contribute meaningfully to society, irrespective of background, location, or unforeseen circumstances.
The EU's commitment to collaborating with Nigeria in addressing poverty was reaffirmed by De Luca. He revealed that the EU is actively supporting Nigeria's social protection sector with a €46 million allocation within its 2021-2027 programming framework. These funds are designated for strengthening existing systems and designing effective social safety net programs.
De Luca elaborated on the implementation plan, stating, "We are finalizing procedures with UNICEF and GIZ to execute the project in designated states." This intervention aims to enhance the overall social protection system by focusing on interoperability of relevant databases and maintaining a functional social register that can effectively respond to crises.
The initiative also encompasses supporting targeted safety net programs in three northeastern states, specifically aimed at communities grappling with the challenges of climate change.