Abuja: The Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), a Civil Society Organisation, has unveiled a project termed ‘ACT Naija’, focused on enhancing social protection for vulnerable groups within the society. This initiative aims to be a robust response to the pressing need for inclusive and accountable social protection systems across Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the project is set to be implemented in seven states across the federation, selected based on specific considerations and poverty indicators. The initiative is a collaborative effort by a consortium that includes ANEEJ, the New Initiative for Social Development (NISD), and Bread for the World (BfTW), Germany. It is co-funded by the European Union (EU).
The project targets increasing transparency and accountability within social protection frameworks in Borno, Delta, Enugu, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja. Rev. David Ugolor, Executive Director of ANEEJ, underscored the importance of engaging government to ensure effective implementation of social protection laws aimed at poverty alleviation. Represented by Mr. Leo Atakpu, Deputy Executive Director, ANEEJ, Ugolor stressed the need for a robust legislative framework to drive the National Social Protection initiative.
Ugolor highlighted the alarming statistic that 133 million Nigerians currently live in multidimensional poverty, emphasizing the need to focus on vulnerable populations to lift them above the poverty line. The project aims to facilitate evidence-based monitoring to boost citizens’ awareness and inclusion in the national social register.
The project aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 16 and 17, focusing on poverty alleviation, strong institutions, and global partnerships. The initiative aims to reach 2,120 individuals, including 150 CSOs, 30 Community-Based Organisations, and five Persons with Disability. Additionally, it targets 1,000 members of women groups, including petty traders and farmers, 300 youth leaders, 60 media professionals, and 80 government officials and international agencies.
Ms. Chiara Casareua, the Project Manager for ‘ACT Naija’, expressed a desire to expand partnerships and explore more cooperation opportunities. Mr. Ruben Alba, Team Lead of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, conveyed support for the project’s goals to assist vulnerable Nigerians.
Mr. Steve Tsado, Project Manager of New Initiative for Social Development, expressed optimism about the project’s implementation, highlighting its design to advocate for social inclusion and institutional reforms. With over two decades of experience in social development, Tsado emphasized the critical nature of social protection for Nigerians and the importance of collaborative efforts to achieve the project’s objectives.