FG Teams Up with UN to Tackle Poverty and Humanitarian Challenges in Nigeria
The Nigerian government has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the United Nations (UN) to tackle poverty and address critical humanitarian challenges in the country. This declaration was made by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nantawe Yilwatda, during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday.
Yilwatda’s remarks followed a key strategic meeting with Amina Mohammed, the UN Deputy Secretary-General, where both parties discussed strengthening their collaboration to deliver sustainable solutions that address the needs of vulnerable Nigerians.
Yilwatda highlighted the importance of the UN’s role in supporting Nigeria’s social intervention programs, which have been instrumental in helping the government meet its poverty reduction objectives. He emphasized that this renewed partnership is in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to tackle pressing issues such as youth unemployment, poverty, and the challenges faced by those affected by conflict and climate change.
“We have a unique opportunity to partner with the UN to support Nigerians impacted by insurgency, climate change, and armed conflicts,” Yilwatda stated. “This partnership will focus on providing lasting solutions to alleviate poverty, reduce youth unemployment, and enhance the safety and stability of our communities.”
As part of the government’s ongoing efforts, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction is set to launch the 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan on December 23. Yilwatda explained that this plan will outline strategies to address Nigeria’s humanitarian challenges and will serve as a framework for securing global funding in collaboration with the UN.
Additionally, the government’s Durable Solution Plan is set to roll out in the first quarter of 2025, demonstrating President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to poverty reduction. The plan includes important allocations in the proposed 2025 budget for safety net programs to lift Nigerians out of poverty.
Yilwatda also revealed that the ministry aims to create at least two million jobs by the end of 2025 as part of its broader poverty alleviation strategy.
In response, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed commended the Nigerian government’s efforts, affirming the UN’s ongoing support in addressing the country’s multidimensional poverty challenges. She highlighted the increasing number of people displaced due to climate change, conflict, and other factors, noting the vital role of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs in responding to these crises.
“People are on the move today—whether due to climate change, conflict, or displacement—facing various hardships,” Mohammed said. “This ministry plays a pivotal role in providing solutions to humanitarian crises and ensuring the safety of communities.”
Mohammed called for greater investment in social intervention programs, urging both government and private sector partners to allocate more resources toward building resilience and addressing the growing humanitarian needs across the country.
