Residents of Kano have commended the State House of Assembly for passing the long-awaited Social Protection Agency Bill, a legislative move set to improve the welfare of the most vulnerable in the state.

The bill seeks to establish a dedicated agency to provide targeted social welfare programmes for disadvantaged groups, including the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities.

Its passage has been widely celebrated as a significant step towards poverty alleviation and improved living standards in Kano. Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Muhammadu Abdu, a community leader in Sauna Kawaji, Nasarawa Local Council, described the development as timely and impactful. “This bill will ensure that the most vulnerable among us, including the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities, receive much-needed support,” he said.

Farida Halilu, a civil society activist, called the bill a historic milestone for the state. “The agency, when established, will create targeted programmes that address the specific needs of disadvantaged groups,” she noted, adding that it would significantly enhance poverty reduction efforts.

Dr Sadi Aminullah, a policy expert, praised the Assembly’s commitment to improving social services, stating that the bill would streamline the delivery of welfare initiatives. “It is a much-needed initiative that will address the needs of marginalised groups and improve transparency in welfare programmes,” he added.

Similarly, Aisha Dauda, an activist, expressed optimism about the bill’s potential impact. “This is a positive development for Kano, and we hope it serves as a model for other states to follow,” she said.

NAN reports that the State Assembly passed the Kano State Social Protection Agency Bill, 2025, on Tuesday after years of advocacy by UNICEF and civil society groups urging the state government to strengthen its social protection policies.

Speaking on the bill, the Assembly Majority Leader, Lawan Hussaini, clarified that the proposed agency would be led by a Director-General with expertise in social services. He added that a board of trustees, comprising representatives from various ministries and partner organisations, would oversee the agency’s operations.

Hussaini emphasised that the agency’s establishment would significantly benefit Kano residents, ensuring that social welfare programmes are effectively managed and transparently allocated to those in need.